Is there a finer chaser in world cricket than Virat Kohli? MS Dhoni perhaps? It was a good thing for India the two of them were together in the dying stages of their quasi quarter-final against Australia in Mohali. Dhoni's men progressed to a semi-final, against West Indies, and ended Australia's World T20 campaign, and the international career of Shane Watson, with a chase of impeccable timing led by Kohli.

Set 161 for victory, India saw their required run-rate balloon up past 10 an over, up towards 12 an over, but Kohli was always poised to prick the balloon. He did so with such perfect timing - 19 runs coming off the 18th over from James Faulkner and then 16 off the next from Nathan Coulter-Nile - that you felt he never doubted himself. In the end, India got home with five balls to spare, madness when you consider they needed 47 off 24.

The win came with a boundary clubbed through long-on by Dhoni from the first ball of the 20th over. Faulkner by then was in the unenviable position of having to keep India to three or less in the final over, such was the devastation that had just occurred. Dhoni had played an important role with 18 not out off 10, but it was Kohli who fell to his knees to celebrate. This was on him. Him and his unbeaten 82 from 51 deliveries.

It was an innings of sheer class, his nine fours and two sixes just fine, clean cricket shots, placed where the fielders were not. Watson, in his final match for Australia, had been their best bowler, and when he finished his fourth over with figures of 2 for 23, Kohli decided the time had come to lift India home. His half-century had come from 39 deliveries, and his next 12 balls brought 32 runs and the victory.

The chase appeared to be stuttering while Kohli was accompanied by Yuvraj Singh at the crease. Yuvraj had rolled his left ankle during the innings and was hobbling through slowly for runs, trying to rely on his ability to hit boundaries. But there was little doubt he was a handbrake on India's innings, and Watson's remarkable running and diving catch at cover to get rid of Yuvraj for 21 off 18 probably played into India's hands.

Watson certainly tried his best to extend his career by another match, bowling Rohit Sharma for 12 and having Suresh Raina caught behind off a bouncer for 10, and by that stage India were 49 for 3 and in some trouble. Shikhar Dhawan had also fallen for 13, top-edging a pull to short fine leg off Nathan Coulter-Nile, but while Kohli remained at the crease Australia knew they were far from safe.

His chasing ability is world class, and that was the gamble Steven Smith took when he won the toss and chose to bat on a surface that offered some pace. Australia's 160 seemed slightly below-par, which might be good in golf but not in a high-pressure knock-out cricket match. Their top order made a fast start by racking up 59 for 1 in the Powerplay, but after that they struggled for momentum.

Khawaja especially looked ominous and 24 of his 26 runs came in boundaries, although Ashish Nehra had also induced a number of plays and misses. Nehra was outstanding throughout his initial three-over spell and when he returned in the dying overs, and finished with 1 for 20 from his four overs. His one wicket was that of Khawaja, who edged behind in the fifth over.

India's bowlers showed that there was spin as well as pace in the pitch. R Ashwin's first over leaked 22 as Aaron Finch launched a pair of sixes over long-on, but in his next over Ashwin had David Warner stumped, the ball turning past his bat as he danced down the pitch. It was an ominous sign for Australia, who have struggled to handle spin in India.

Glenn Maxwell was scratchy in his 31 from 28 balls, and Faulkner too struggled to score at better than a run a ball. Watson struck a late 18 not out and Peter Nevill, not renowned for his power hitting, picked up a four and a six off his only two balls, the last two of the innings, and he and Watson were all smiles as they left the field. Only the Indians were smiling about two hours later.

First Kohli certainly deserves all the attention and admiration he is receiving after his match winning performance, but no batsman in history has consistently performed well enough to compensate for the failure of others.

India has some problems they have to face. Spin bowling is India's strength, but it is not as good as it used to be. In recent matches, batting has shown some weaknesses. The top order fails, and then they expect Kohli and Dhoni to come to the rescue. Indian batsmen must put some big numbers on the board before losing too many wickets, and do not expect the wicketkeeper and the bowlers to come and save the match.

Sachin_now_Kohli_Painful_WC_Losses
on March 29, 2016, 15:07 GMT

If India and England qualify for the final there is a huge chance of Kohli failure Historically most of the people thinks he fails badly in the Test series in English conditions but the truth is that he miserably fails against England in India too and his least average among all test playing nations across all 3 formats is against England.

HITUE
on March 29, 2016, 14:27 GMT

Kohli is undoubtedly a great player but India cannot depend on him always . The openers must perform and give India a decent start . Maybe it is time to drop Dhawan and replace him with Rahane . Pandey should also be dropped and replaced with Harbhajan . Yuvraj if fit should play . The momentum is with India and they should win the T20 Cup !

asthomas911
on March 29, 2016, 11:11 GMT

I think:

(1) Bumrah should only bowl at the death while the opening spell should be between Nehra and Yuvaraj, followed by Ashwin, Jadeja & Raina then end with Pandya and Bumrah combo, if Dhoni prefers to finish it with pace bowling

(2) The top order and the middle order needs to come to their senses that they have to lift their game

(3) Rohit and Dhawan make full use of the powerplay available and score at least between 50 and 60 runs in the first 6 overs.

Lets hope India lift the cup!

Daniel Gochin
on March 29, 2016, 10:55 GMT

T20 needs brave, sometimes risky decisions. Just to trying to contain players like Kohli will never work. As long as he was there at the end, the chances were good that India would win. Even though it might have been risky, surely Smith would have been better off trying to get Kohli's wicket. Some attacking bowling instead of just trying to restrict the run rate. It's unlikely that you'll win by trying to restrict a player of Kohli's ability. Really, your only option is to get him out. T20 requires a different way of thinking. India seems to get that. Australia seems to not.

Kashi0127
on March 29, 2016, 9:58 GMT

It is ridiculous persisting with Rohit Raina and Dhawan inspite of continuous failures. High time to bring in Manish Pandey and Rahane. Even Uthappa would be better any day!
Also agonizing to see Yuvraj struggle. He is a great trier and has a lion heart but recognize the fact that he is no longer what he was. Put him out of his agony by dropping him!

Ms.Cricket
on March 29, 2016, 8:53 GMT

The reason why Australia lost boils down to one silly decision which was probably Lehmann's idea given that Steve Smith is not prone to making wild choices. That was to play Agar in the first match against New Zealand and then bowl him in the Powerplay, the third over no less which cost 18 runs and released the pressure! Agar had played only one T20 international before and had not done too well in the BigBash either. It was made worse when they (probably Lehmann's idea again) promoted Agar to bat ahead of Faulkner. Funny decisions cost teams, this was a blunder too costly, the margin of just 8 runs in that match lost it for Australia.

brusselslion
on March 29, 2016, 8:18 GMT

@Bradmanbestever: A simple solution to reduce the risk of injury further would be for Australia not to enter WCT20 at all. However, I guess that we would then be treated to Aussie fans such as yourself telling the eventual winners that it was a hollow victory because, if the Aussies had been present they would undoubtedly have won it! Ho hum.

Jose...P
on March 29, 2016, 7:40 GMT

@BRADMANBESTEVER ON MARCH 29, 2016, 4:00 GMT:

You wrote:

"Thank god we (you mean Oz?) got knocked out of the T-slog fest. Our guys can now focus on REAL (emphasis added) cricket and avoid risk of injury."

A small correction is needed to the second sentence.

Most of your boys, including the retiring one (and a few 'retired-in-the=past' ones too) will be limbering up to play in IPL or to be effective in their support staff. It will be interesting, if you take a count of the number, which includes past, present, & future players of OZ.

But...

If you meant IPL as the REAL cricket, what a somersault in just one sentence!

A little bit of injury is OK, for a fistful of dollars, no?

When someone like Boof is making serious comments about inadequate preparation for OZ getting knocked out, comments like yours look a bit strange.

sants_real
on March 29, 2016, 7:39 GMT

King Kohli rules again... still 2 to go and other batters need to show up.. As per Dhoni at least from 60% -> 80 %

Laslojams
on March 30, 2016, 8:52 GMT

First Kohli certainly deserves all the attention and admiration he is receiving after his match winning performance, but no batsman in history has consistently performed well enough to compensate for the failure of others.

India has some problems they have to face. Spin bowling is India's strength, but it is not as good as it used to be. In recent matches, batting has shown some weaknesses. The top order fails, and then they expect Kohli and Dhoni to come to the rescue. Indian batsmen must put some big numbers on the board before losing too many wickets, and do not expect the wicketkeeper and the bowlers to come and save the match.

Sachin_now_Kohli_Painful_WC_Losses
on March 29, 2016, 15:07 GMT

If India and England qualify for the final there is a huge chance of Kohli failure Historically most of the people thinks he fails badly in the Test series in English conditions but the truth is that he miserably fails against England in India too and his least average among all test playing nations across all 3 formats is against England.

HITUE
on March 29, 2016, 14:27 GMT

Kohli is undoubtedly a great player but India cannot depend on him always . The openers must perform and give India a decent start . Maybe it is time to drop Dhawan and replace him with Rahane . Pandey should also be dropped and replaced with Harbhajan . Yuvraj if fit should play . The momentum is with India and they should win the T20 Cup !

asthomas911
on March 29, 2016, 11:11 GMT

I think:

(1) Bumrah should only bowl at the death while the opening spell should be between Nehra and Yuvaraj, followed by Ashwin, Jadeja & Raina then end with Pandya and Bumrah combo, if Dhoni prefers to finish it with pace bowling

(2) The top order and the middle order needs to come to their senses that they have to lift their game

(3) Rohit and Dhawan make full use of the powerplay available and score at least between 50 and 60 runs in the first 6 overs.

Lets hope India lift the cup!

Daniel Gochin
on March 29, 2016, 10:55 GMT

T20 needs brave, sometimes risky decisions. Just to trying to contain players like Kohli will never work. As long as he was there at the end, the chances were good that India would win. Even though it might have been risky, surely Smith would have been better off trying to get Kohli's wicket. Some attacking bowling instead of just trying to restrict the run rate. It's unlikely that you'll win by trying to restrict a player of Kohli's ability. Really, your only option is to get him out. T20 requires a different way of thinking. India seems to get that. Australia seems to not.

Kashi0127
on March 29, 2016, 9:58 GMT

It is ridiculous persisting with Rohit Raina and Dhawan inspite of continuous failures. High time to bring in Manish Pandey and Rahane. Even Uthappa would be better any day!
Also agonizing to see Yuvraj struggle. He is a great trier and has a lion heart but recognize the fact that he is no longer what he was. Put him out of his agony by dropping him!

Ms.Cricket
on March 29, 2016, 8:53 GMT

The reason why Australia lost boils down to one silly decision which was probably Lehmann's idea given that Steve Smith is not prone to making wild choices. That was to play Agar in the first match against New Zealand and then bowl him in the Powerplay, the third over no less which cost 18 runs and released the pressure! Agar had played only one T20 international before and had not done too well in the BigBash either. It was made worse when they (probably Lehmann's idea again) promoted Agar to bat ahead of Faulkner. Funny decisions cost teams, this was a blunder too costly, the margin of just 8 runs in that match lost it for Australia.

brusselslion
on March 29, 2016, 8:18 GMT

@Bradmanbestever: A simple solution to reduce the risk of injury further would be for Australia not to enter WCT20 at all. However, I guess that we would then be treated to Aussie fans such as yourself telling the eventual winners that it was a hollow victory because, if the Aussies had been present they would undoubtedly have won it! Ho hum.

Jose...P
on March 29, 2016, 7:40 GMT

@BRADMANBESTEVER ON MARCH 29, 2016, 4:00 GMT:

You wrote:

"Thank god we (you mean Oz?) got knocked out of the T-slog fest. Our guys can now focus on REAL (emphasis added) cricket and avoid risk of injury."

A small correction is needed to the second sentence.

Most of your boys, including the retiring one (and a few 'retired-in-the=past' ones too) will be limbering up to play in IPL or to be effective in their support staff. It will be interesting, if you take a count of the number, which includes past, present, & future players of OZ.

But...

If you meant IPL as the REAL cricket, what a somersault in just one sentence!

A little bit of injury is OK, for a fistful of dollars, no?

When someone like Boof is making serious comments about inadequate preparation for OZ getting knocked out, comments like yours look a bit strange.

sants_real
on March 29, 2016, 7:39 GMT

King Kohli rules again... still 2 to go and other batters need to show up.. As per Dhoni at least from 60% -> 80 %

Probuddho Chakraborty
on March 29, 2016, 7:37 GMT

I'm seeing a lot of comments regarding Australia batting first and not thinking Kohli was there to chase.
Tbh Aussies cannot decide things thinking about a single player at the back of their mind. They just thought that they will bat India out of the game since chasing in a pressure cooker game against India is risky since BD choked miserably.
Aussies were right on course to get India bat out of the game with 54/0 in 4 overs but alas everything fell apart!
Yes, I do agree with the under-utilization of Zampa who was brilliant against Pakistan to control their chase.

Vignesh Viky
on March 29, 2016, 7:20 GMT

indian team fantastic player

Cric-at-India
on March 29, 2016, 6:58 GMT

@Alan Storey LOL! I guess you didn't see the match. There were too many slower balls to Kohli, Too predictable with slower balls. all fours and sixes hit by Kohli came from slower balls. Gosh, i fell funny people commenting without even knowing what slower is or with out even watching the game.

Cric-at-India
on March 29, 2016, 6:54 GMT

@BradmanBestEver NO CHANCE!! they will be playing IPL! The real IPL i mean!

Cricinfouser
on March 29, 2016, 6:33 GMT

Dhawan should be replaced by Jinx and if Yuvi is unfit, Negi should be the replacement. No point in having a long batting line up in Wankhede pitch. Raina can be given a chance in Mumbai as the pitch is now a belter and i dont think MS will drop Raina as he always use him as a part time bowler.

Devarsh7
on March 29, 2016, 6:21 GMT

Kohli scoring most of the runs is both a problem and a good thiNg!!! The problem is what will happen if kohli fails?? The good thing is that India reached semi final on basis of good ...sorry not good but extremely good performance of Virat so law of averages may catch up with other batsman and they will someday start scoring most probably in semi final since iTsvangirai in wankhede and Rohit has great experience playing there!!! I think it's Ind vs NZ final and India will win ultimately....... I feel v will see a Rohit masterclass in semi and a kohli masterclass in the final!! good luck India!

cricpanther
on March 29, 2016, 5:51 GMT

Australians going with robotics way, with no much thinking ability and that's the reason Aus has lost many individual who can lead and becomes captain of australian cricket. One of them is obviously Great Shane Warne, also Dean Jones. Smith on t20 format looks forceful captain and he himself not enjoying but greedy Smith did not say No for captaincy and Aus out of the tournament!! Smith himself is not a t20 player and not fitting in t20 squade and he is leading the team!! If not Finch, Warner can be a captain or even Maxwell can be considered to lead but stubborn Australian management is tough to coordinate and need to be more openness for the country like Australia.

Dramit Singh
on March 29, 2016, 5:42 GMT

@BRADMANBESTEVER...i guess you mean sour grapes.well I feel like laughing on your comment bro.i guess earlier also on cricinfo I have posted comments saying that if aussies really don't want to play t20 cricket then just be my guest and please tell your board to neither participate in any t20 internationals nor organize any domestic t20 tournament.lol

forExcelienceInCricket
on March 29, 2016, 5:32 GMT

Based on potential & pre-tournament performances the top 6 teams at start of T20WC 2016 were 1.IND 2.SA. 3.NZ 4.ENG 5.AUS. 6.WI. But victories are secured by converting potential into performances & by minimising errors. AUS made a blistering start of 50+ in 4 overs virtually a repeat of CWC 2003. MSD with his smart captaincy diminished effectiveness of AUS's strong batting line up in the middle overs & AUS finished about 20-30 runs short of a defendable total. That set a perfect stage for exceptional Kohli to complete the run chase with support from Yuvi & MSD. AUS's experimentation prior & during WC cost them a SF slot despite players with huge IPL experience. AUS needed Finch & Warner as openers and experienced spinner. SF line up is now NZ v ENG & WI v IND. Contrary to views of some IND does not need drastic changes in top 5 except in case of injury. It is time for top 4 other than Kohli to also show greater discipline in short selection & play to proven capability for title win.

CricketMastro
on March 29, 2016, 5:26 GMT

@C4 NINJA: Why you are repeating same thing again and again. Anyways hope you home team already trashed in super 10. is it?

cricpanther
on March 29, 2016, 5:24 GMT

Agree with AMOTU, Yuvraj as an opener is really eye opener thought!! Yuvi can handle new ball very well than these Rohit and Dhawan. Also I would say Raina has lost his luster with bat. He feels he is there just to field and some time bowling!! I would say if Yuvraj is healing fast, let's send him atleast earlier than Raina and if possible send him with Rohit-Yuvraj (left-right combination) Also go with Manish Pandey if Yuvi is injured. Stay away from Rahane. Also, Bhajje can be more dangerous against Windies with his home IPL Mumbai pitch. Ashvin getting wicket but same time giving away too many runs and also he is not contributing with his bat like Harbhajan can have power hitting ability. I would say wake up all Batsman Rohit, Dhawan, Raina, Jadeja, Pandya. Now India enters in real world cup game with real t20 opponent. Wankhede pitch is also difficult. Common india start practice hard and do proper home work before this encounter.

cricpanther
on March 29, 2016, 5:17 GMT

Magical Inning indeed with Magician, King Kohli!! What a timing what a gap finding ability what a slower delivery picking ability, I am speechless!!! Now, it's time to regroup again and hopefully Kohli can continue against West Indies too for very important one win India can enter into Final at Eden Garden. Unfortunate of Yuvraj's injury, his contribution with bat and bowl at that match was massive!!! Hatts of to Yuvi too. Yuvraj is irreplaceable with any one but if he still injured go with Manish Pandey. He can grabbed opportunity with both hands and can be effective against West Indies with his power hitting. Do not go with Rahane, he lacks aggression and not confident and throwing his wicket like immature batsman, He lacks control and do not have ability to find the gaps which make him hitting the ball in the air and getting out cheaply. Now it's time for Ashvin to do more practice and how to be economical and not to leak runs like he did in Mohali. I still feel Bhajje can be good.

First_Drop
on March 29, 2016, 5:14 GMT

Really impressed by Adam Zampa. Really surprised he wasn't bowled the max 4 overs in this and some other matches.

amotu
on March 29, 2016, 4:37 GMT

It'll obviously not happen, but I think Yuvraj Singh should really be an opener. I'm tired of seeing Rohit Sharma and Shikar Dhawan get out for 3, 9, 14, whatever every time. Yuvraj's temperament of staying in there and getting somewhere around a run a ball is a lot better suited to India's trend of going slow at the start and accelerating as the game goes on. Putting Yuvraj in the middle, as we've seen, puts a damper on India's run rate in the middle of the game.

cricpanther
on March 29, 2016, 4:01 GMT

Hatts of Kohli, top class batting by him and take India home with incredible inning. Entire world cup aside and this Kohli inning has more weight on pendulum!!! Shake the entire world with his extra ordinary batting!!! It's time now to be responsible inning by Rohit, Raina and Dhawan. This trio lack of control of the ball, hitting in the air by immature, in experience young cricketer in their early under 19. No sense when wicket falling to stick in and hang on there. Top order indian batsman need just 30 run average in a quick time, that's it. Does it sound big or difficult by Rohit and Dhawan? then why you are holding that important spot at important world cup?? Now there is biggest competitor and dangerous West Indies who are prepared for t20 format only and India need to overcome this challenge by Total Team work, as Virat or Great MSD or Pandya or Nehra or Bumrah can not win matches every single time. Total 11 players need to share their massive contribution to defeat windies.

GROUCHO_MARX
on March 29, 2016, 4:00 GMT

Thank god we got knocked out of the T-slog fest. Our guys can now focus on real cricket and avoid risk of injury.

badeesaeedbadee
on March 29, 2016, 3:49 GMT

VIRAT KHOLI, the great ever cricketer i have seen in all format of the game, and when he hailed the rahuman of Bangaladesh shows that he is not a pandit in cricket he is very caushious among the great and all, this grades him as the best ever cricket alrounder in the world, may Allah bring more strenth to you.

TheMysteryMan
on March 29, 2016, 3:36 GMT

@ALAN STOREY , Kohli missed just 1 slow ball in second last over trying to charge when India had already taken full control of the match. He missed it because he tried to slog to finish the game. Before that, he had hit 4 of them from Faulkner to the fence.

So yeah, even that didnt work. Just admit it, it was a special innings. Nothing australia could have done or did worked. There was absolutely no chance given by kohli at any point. No close calls, no dropped edges, nothing.

Hindh_88
on March 29, 2016, 2:23 GMT

@Alan storey. Faulkner bowled 5 slow balls in 17th over which were all hit for 4 by Virat . just admit India won all Will be well..

MikeWest207
on March 29, 2016, 1:37 GMT

Knock out cricket is going to be interesting!

If Kohil fires, India will likely prevail. If a team gets him out cheaply...well...things might go very differently.

Noor Dhindsa
on March 28, 2016, 23:56 GMT

I totally agree with you BowlersWithBalls.they both should be counted as subtitute runners.no confidence at all while they playing.Kohli can't survivor every time.

Alan Storey
on March 28, 2016, 22:53 GMT

Smith played dumb cricket at the end. Needed to take the pace off the ball to deny the hard hitting Indians the opportunity of boundary hits. He neglected the lessons from the way other games have been won on these slow paced pitches. A couple of slower balls to Kohli in the last few overs were missed completely.

Downtheorder
on March 28, 2016, 21:51 GMT

@Malx - That's an excellent comment mate! I've been banging on about that for a while. Why aren't the selectors made responsible and accountable for these disasters? They just go on retaining their positions, and making the same child-like blunders. Most jobs in society have consequences if you continually stuff up, but these guys get a free ride...literally and figuratively. Surely Cricket Australia can do better than a fixed contract for their selectors. Some kind of performance review?
As you say, the Ashes last winter was a monumental selection stuff-up. The mini T20 series against India, like-wise. And now this. Lucky we had the West Indies touring to save some face...
Issues continually pointed out here by intelligent cricket watchers go un-checked. e.g. the continued obsession with pace over quality (Coulter-Nile, Boland...), the dumping of Boyce for Agar, dumping Bailey, the fascination with Mitch Marsh, Wade being retained too long, ignoring Khawaja until it was a joke etc..

cjscanada
on March 28, 2016, 21:48 GMT

@Glennoz, yeah right buddy, agree everyone was slogging but in the midst there was a Craftsman, who sliced and diced with such precision, you would go miles to see the performance. That aside, I still respect the Aussie talents but not their heads. First by not playing their best unit in Australia, they gave India the edge. For the world cup they should have gone with Watto and Warner as openers, which would give the latter some runs and confidence to play better in the later overs. He has performed best at the top. Drop Steve, he is very good and dependable in the other formats but there is someone who is more skilled in Bailey. Wonder if he is injured? Khwaja is a class act and he could be used to up the ante towards the end. Imagine Khwaja, Maxwell and Neville tonking the balls to all parts of the ground. Also in the bowling they missed a trick by not getting in an extra spinner. Even Lyon would have been decent compared to the pace. The Kiwi's have done their homework the best.

crrkiran
on March 28, 2016, 21:27 GMT

what were the think tank doing when yuvraj was struggling to run. In a t20 game, where every ball is important, u cant waste time with a struggling batsman. He should have been immedeatly called back and dhoni/pandya should have been sent. Had India lost, this would have been the main reason.

KM01
on March 28, 2016, 21:09 GMT

Kholi's sublime knock and Dhoni's underappreciated one are disguising Yuvraj's staggering selfishness. Had we lost, Yuvi's decision not to retire hurt would have been excoriated as it should be even now. Shame on Yuvraj!! A man who valued his stint at the crease more than India's chase!

needgreenpitches4bowlingallrounders
on March 28, 2016, 20:41 GMT

What i read from comments section.
Strengths of team India : -
1)Virat is best finisher in T20.
2)India is one man army and opposition needs to take him out for any chance to win.
3)After Winning 10 out of last 12 games luck is minimized.
4) Nehra will keep out Shami for rest of world cup.
5)Dhoni's captaincy - bowling changes and field setting are impeccable.

Weakness of team India : -
1)Dhoni won't change his team based on conditions.
2)Dhoni won't dump Dhawan or Rohit or Raina
3)Raina got out to short ball from just retired Shane Watson .
4)Dhoni gives one over too many to Pandya
5) Two times in this WC Ashwin has not finished his full allotted overs.

Australia couldn't get past the line this time even though they had finally jotted down there best team on paper ,more importantly correct batting order. Shane Watson still remains their complete all rounder and sure they did loose 2 players - refined bowler and power hitter from their team sheet after his retirement!!!

lee_man
on March 28, 2016, 20:37 GMT

Australia still doesn't quite understand T20's. They were late in fully embracing it and it shows. As a WI fan I was hoping Australia would make it past India, since that would have meant that WI would have most likely been in the finals. India is a totally different proposition...a very balanced and experienced team.

MiddleStump
on March 28, 2016, 20:31 GMT

Well I had predicted a win for Australia but I was wrong. Well done India. They have really only 3 world class players in Kohli, Dhoni, and Ashwin. The others are hit or miss players but with Kohli and Dhoni batting at the finish, it did not matter. 67 runs of just 5 overs and 1 ball was simply awesome. In retrospect Australia would have been better served had Watson not caught Yuvraj who was hobbling. Dhoni and Kohli are the finest pair of finishers in the game and Australia was up against it from then on. India now look good to beat the West Indies even with a pair of openers that have contributed next to nothing in this tournament so far.

BowlersWithBalls
on March 28, 2016, 20:11 GMT

Can someone remind me again what Raina and Shikhar are doing in this team?

More than reaching the semi-finals, I find it incredible that we did it with only 9 players on the team - Shikhar and Raina should be counted as substitute runners.

How much longer do they expect Virat/Yuvi/Dhoni to drag them along as check-in baggage?

BowlersWithBalls
on March 28, 2016, 20:06 GMT

Thank you, Zulfiqar Ansari, for your classy comments and wishes.

Actually, I do think that Umar Akmal has a lot of under-utilized potential. Groomed properly, he can turn a match on its head.

We enjoyed the visiting Pakistan team (as Indians always do), and look forward to many Kohli-Aamir face-offs.

abc3
on March 28, 2016, 18:50 GMT

c4 ninja keeps saying India is nothing without Kohli - We get it. you don't need to repeat the same statement over and over. If that makes you feel good. then fine. LOL. Good teams have 2 or 3 match winners, a few above average players and an OK support cast that completes the 11. Take any good teams in the past this is the formula. No team will have 11 match winners. All time great teams like Windies of the past and Aus team of the previous decade had 6 - 7 match winners. That is the best you can get and that is a rarity which occurs once in a few generations. Other than that most good teams manage to stay consistent with couple of match winners and rest of the support cast providing necessary support.

howtoplaycricket
on March 28, 2016, 18:34 GMT

Afghanistan can play a better cricket than bangladesh if they r given more exposure in an international arena..come on ICC u have given 20 years to bangladesh..give afghanistan just a 5 years..n they can easily whitewash over rated bangla tigers.

Olly1711
on March 28, 2016, 17:58 GMT

I have never seen (or understood) Duckworth or Lewis but something tells me that they might look like Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma... But of course, they have collectively shaped Virat into a fine opening batsman

Olly1711
on March 28, 2016, 17:56 GMT

Current best batsman in the world dvillers, smith williamson root amla but kohli in all formats is the greatest

samincolumbia
on March 28, 2016, 17:46 GMT

Kohli is simply miles ahead than any of the over rated aussie batsman like Smith and Warner in ALL formats.

PersonwhoSpeakstruth
on March 28, 2016, 17:30 GMT

If a decision goes agauinst India, fans from mostly BD and neigbor people rejoice.
But moment India get a rare decision ( Smith) on their side...its amazing to see so many people taking side of morality.
Makes victory sweeter.
Kohli played awesome. Risk free cricket in chase on a pitch where strokemaking was difficult.

viraj09
on March 28, 2016, 17:27 GMT

So this is how it stands after group stages....India 3 wins, Rest of Asia (BD,SL,Pak,AFG) 3 wins....Thanks to Afghan that no reached 3 from 2!

Kohli has excelled beyond expectations.Probably the best finisher in the 20-20 format.Astute and inelligent captainacy by Dhoni breaked the Aussies after they had got off to a terrific start.Indian bowlers were very disciplined after the first six overs.Australia had only themselves to blame for not accelerating in the last five overs.Good luck India.

viinodc
on March 28, 2016, 15:36 GMT

I think India should bring back gautham gambhir instead of dhawan/rohit/raina

Zulfiqar Ansari
on March 28, 2016, 15:27 GMT

The most prolific, charismatic and intelligent batsman of this era. You can't ask for a better player in your team. I wish Pakistan had somebody like Kohli. Best wishes to the Indian Team and good luck in the Semi Final and Final.

OttawaRocks
on March 28, 2016, 15:25 GMT

Great performance by Kohli with useful support from Dhoni and Yuvraj. While this is great there are too many passengers on the Indian team. Keep in mind India could have easily lost to Bangladesh too. Exciting but not convincing cricket.

BCCI_Man
on March 28, 2016, 14:56 GMT

It was good to see that an Australian Captain is all praise for a player from opponent team. I have never seen ex-Aussie Captain praising opponent team player. Can say now they are now playing as a human being and not as a robot.

Hanumall
on March 28, 2016, 14:48 GMT

Talent, determination, consistency, fitness, adaptability, ability to handle pressure - Virat Kohli has them all. He is set to serve Indian cricket for long years to come with great distinction. He should only disregard all advice seeking him to become more 'aggressive'. He has before him the more appropriate example of captain Dhoni, who proved that cool captains win everything, (except the approbation of some compulsive Dhoni bashers).

Kangroos.Proteas.Monkeys.Lions
on March 28, 2016, 14:46 GMT

Wonderful rescue act from Kohli. Unlike fab4 era this indian batting lineup has become a one man show. If kohli falters then india score 70. India with the best bowling lineup are now favorites and if England/WI falter one more time then India might run into NZ again.

Parag Thakur
on March 28, 2016, 14:30 GMT

Wow.. its just unbelievable how people can come up with such illogical statements with little or no facts to back them.. 90% luck! Are you serious? if thats the case ICC could well declare the winner by just tossing the coins for every match..This is not gully cricket. And people saying India not deserving to win the WC.. well tell me who was in the past.. every team that has won the t20 WC till now has struggled in their initial stages and has played their best cricket in the semis and the finals.. same could be the case with India as well.. just digest this fact that India is too good a team not to reach the semis

kargilboy
on March 28, 2016, 14:28 GMT

@smoothrascal amla is breaking his record in Odis just stats only but he is not breaking his chasing records in Odis no one even near to him 14 hundreds while chasing most no of hundreds in chasing equal to sachin 13 on winning cause itself a record .look his scores when it matters and amla abd any other batsman record when mattered .most imp age virat 27 amla 34 .for how many years he can carry on.

Exactly as I predicted in "what were Pakistan Playing for article", I know why many people didn't like my comments their? but I can't lie against my sense of humor . But Salutes & Love to my style Shane Watson for making his last match a thriller as it should be :)

likeintcricket
on March 28, 2016, 13:57 GMT

Kohli has made things so easy that its just amazing. Infect most of India's win recently against many countries are owed to him. I said earlier that he is a combination of Gavasker and Sachin and he is a very fast learner. The only weakness he had was against the swinging delivery but I am sure if he go to England now he can handle any bowler on any wicket. All the batting records is now in his range and if he goes on playing for next 10 years he will probably breaks most of the records if not all. I am sure in India there will be a great debate in 5 years on who is the best, Kohli or Tendulkar?

hasa555
on March 28, 2016, 13:39 GMT

I'm really enjoying virath batting. You can easily be fall down when asking 40 odd runs in 3 overs. but not in the case. He did it very easily. No slogs. All are proper cricketing shots. Each and every young bastman should need to watch this inning. You can learn lot from this. From SL

sum_crickt
on March 28, 2016, 13:37 GMT

Brilliant innings by kohli.. But you see we have to take a look at supporting staff here.. Rohit throwing away his wicket.. He is no mean player than kohli(infact more capable than kohli)... We have coaching staff to teach these kind of issues.. But they failed to change rohits temperament.. Same with raina getting out in the same fashion... How long virat will take this burden of chasing single handedly..

gauravj982
on March 28, 2016, 13:33 GMT

Asian countries rule the t20 world so far , i always believe that t20 is the future of cricket , the way afghanistan beat wi yday that was unforgettable , a big congo to AG team,

gundapps
on March 28, 2016, 13:29 GMT

Both MSD and Steve Smith missed a trick in not giving at least a couple of overs more to their spinners their spinners on this surface. Zampa had bowled quite well in the earlier matches and would have definitely been a better choice than the pacers. So also with Jadeja vis-a-vis Pandya.
MSD has also been guilty of not bowling Yuvraj in the earlier matches on surfaces that were helping spinners and bowling Pandya instead.

Gordon101
on March 28, 2016, 13:24 GMT

Australia's results in India highlight that the Aussies dont get 20/20 cricket. Specifically the reluctance to steer away from orthodox cricket. Smith under bowled Zampa regularly and to win in this format captaincy/tactics is paramount in such a fast paced format. It appears that Smith is in above his head. If Australia is serious about winning a world cup it would do well to leave players like Smith and Coulter Nile out. Lynn must play and Zampa definitely MUST bowl his overs out.

Jack Bright
on March 28, 2016, 13:18 GMT

Many people are saying that Aussies are not interested in T20 format. But my question is how long they can ignore it. T20 has bought a fresh life into cricket which was dying outside SC. Look at NZ the way they evolved after T20. Or England who played most boring limited over cricket just few years ago, but now they are packed with power hitters. Even smaller teams have more chances of setting up an upset over the bigger teams and the latest example is Afghans. And the biggest point is even in country like India where cricket is seen as a religion, the career oriented young generation cannot afford to spend 5 days watching a test match which most of the time ends up with no result. So T20 is just going to be more bigger and more powerful .

tex_indian
on March 28, 2016, 13:12 GMT

Amazing innings by Virat. One for the ages. Good support by Yuvi and also by Nehra to restrict the Aussies to 160. But this innings by Virat considering the opposition was none other than Australia is mind-blowing.

csowmi7
on March 28, 2016, 13:07 GMT

This innings is but one of the many matches where kohli has single handedly played a brilliant knock in testing conditions. He played a blinder of an innings against Sri Lanka scoring 133 off 80 odd balls hitting malinga's yorkers for 6s and 4s in a match that India had to win in 40 overs to qualify. Then there was the 183 against arch rivals Pakistan to help chase 330. His Adelaide century in the 4rth innings on a pitch that was turning square against Nathan Lyon who was bowling beautifully almost helped us win. His 70 odd against South Africa in the t20 wc semi finals last time helped us chase down a big total of 172. The innings in the Asia cup against Pakistan came when India were 10/3 on a pitch that was swinging and against Amir who was bowling one of the spells of a lifetime was amazing. In contrast you had a similar innings against the same opposition in spinning conditions to help India stay alive in the competition. Now this innings has come where the next highest score is 21

peaceful_niece
on March 28, 2016, 13:06 GMT

Congrats to my team India and well done Virat & MS!!
So now semifinal between West Indians and Best Indians.
Also Yuvi, Jadeja and Nehraji played well. Bumrah also is special at how he comes back after being hit out. Pandya also support ok.
So problem is Sharma and Dhawan, then Raina.
I feel most overlooked problem is Ashwin's performance if we look at the pitches so far.

Saran Kumar Arivalagan
on March 28, 2016, 13:06 GMT

@greastevermickmalone, india has won their 12 matches out of last 14 matches. If u trust only your luck then you cant achieve this many wins, sure luck was there sometimes but not everytime. For people like you the T20 win will be a sore grape for ever

anshu.s
on March 28, 2016, 13:01 GMT

@GLENNOZ : T20 started more than a decade back and this particular ICC T20 is about to reach the business end , don't you think it is both silly and too late in the piece to raise existential questions about T20 ???

smoothrascal
on March 28, 2016, 12:53 GMT

ya virat is good batsmen but cant agree he is better. dn all batsmen..jst he holdng t20 records only dis t20 based on more percnt luck..his odi records are breakng by hashim amla..atleast record shld be hold for 5 years bit virat's record is not pricble

blahblah1234567
on March 28, 2016, 12:37 GMT

West Indies win toss bowl first... game over

hycIass
on March 28, 2016, 12:29 GMT

@martinmoha I agree with you on khawaja, he showed a glimpse of his class yesterday with a fantastic start and it was the second quickest we have got to 50 in only 3.4 overs. Big things from khawaja coming up in the next few years. Also It looked like Watto was trying to win the game single-handedly for us at times.Give the guy the credit he deserves, true champion. This tournament is wide open for me. India were raging favourites to start the tournament but look quite vulnerable at the moment, relying so massively on Kohli with Sharma, Raina and Dhawan all in awful form but I still think that after winning yesterday India will go all the way now.

bd_007
on March 28, 2016, 12:27 GMT

He proved it again why he is one of the best player in the world...Great knock..Hopefully we will see another one on Thursday ..from bd fan

satishsasikumar
on March 28, 2016, 12:25 GMT

@GreatesteverMickMalone: 90% Luck can win you a match or two at times..but not 10 times when you chase. I hope you got what I mean. Virat played clean cricketing shots unlike Gayle (who is all slam bang) to take India through.

Oneirodyne
on March 28, 2016, 12:07 GMT

@DOWNTHEORDER: Agar always wanted to see the Taj Mahal, so he piggybacked along the team...

gaziraihan88
on March 28, 2016, 12:06 GMT

@Ramiz Haider.Cricket is a team game and Australia were 50 up just after 3.4 overs with 0 wickets gone.Australia easily could've scored 220-230 with all the power hitters Warner,Watson,Smith,Maxwell,Faulkner still in the house and murderous batsmen like Finch,Khawaja at the crease,but Indian bowlers and Dhoni's captaincy meant they scored just 100 runs in next 96 balls,losing 6 wickets in the process.Australians could've batted India out of the game like WC semis last year If not for their bowlers.Only short sighted people sees individuals like Maradona,while in reality it was Valdano,Burruchaga's goals which helped them get out of the group stage and won them the final when Maradona couldn't do much.Sports is all about complementing your teammates and that's what Kohli did for Rohit,Dhawan,Raina,Yuvraj last night,but not before the bowlers&MSD did their job in the field.

Mr.Benakal
on March 28, 2016, 12:05 GMT

Congrats to team INDIA for winning a vrtual quarterfinal against Aus. Excellen Super batting by Kohli-the master of chase. No words there to decribe that innings. Yuvraj parternship is also very important, eventhough it looked like taking 1's when there is 2's & 2's when there is 3's. After injury also 21 from 18 SR of 118 is quite good in the middle overs that too after 3 wockets fallen. so please don't bleme Yuvraj.He is fighter and will alwayes give more than 100% to to team. Compared to fit players Rohit , Raina and Dhawan his parternship in the middle with Kohli Vs Pak and this match are very important. Please be flexible in Team selection for Semifinal match. You can't relay one man-Kohli for every match. Also praying Yuvraj fit for next match and excepting his best will come out...!!! Somashekhara Benakal (Indian cricket Fan)...!!!

Srivatsan Krishnamachari
on March 28, 2016, 12:04 GMT

How many chances Rohit,Shikar & Raina will be given, ever since Asia Cup 2016,but for an isolated innings they have been constantly failing and their lack of Technic and temperament exposed. Raina just unable to play any raising ball on the leg side.How long a single man show can go on. Thanks God at last Yuvraj was given a chance to bowl and he took the prize wicket of Smith. I feel Rahne/ Pande and HarbhajanSingh or Negi should be given a chance. I can understand when Nehara moves slow in the field ; he is nearing 38, but how come youngster like Bhumra is found wanting as a fielder. I thought Australia was unlucky and India was lucky and thank God Virat is in form and consistent.
a word on young Zampa,quite talented and certainly we will hear more about him in
future.

GreatesteverMickMalone
on March 28, 2016, 11:58 GMT

People calling Kholi great. Remember t20 is 90% Luck.

JANJUANAWAZ
on March 28, 2016, 11:57 GMT

Being a Pakistan Fan, I cannot stay behind in praising Veerat Kohli for his fantastic knock against Australia. He played flawless & fearless shots in the gaps. He is truly, as put by Sachin Tendulkar & many other Ex. cricketers, a cricket genius. His game is always worth watching. At the moment, he is probably the best batsman in the world. Wish you all the best Veerat.

Jose...P
on March 28, 2016, 11:52 GMT

@CRICWAR4184 ON MARCH 28, 2016, 11:23 GMT

About Kohli & RCB.

There is an old saying among the 'red Indians', which roughly goes as follows:

"Too many chiefs make the Indians weak!"

Jose...P
on March 28, 2016, 11:47 GMT

Think about it.

Cricket is in good hands.

Look at a whole 'brood' of young ones, coming up in recent times, and holding up the value of traditional skills developed over many decades.

I don't feel the need to debate, as to who is THE best among them.

Among batsmen Kohli, Root, Smith, Kane, Amla et al have class written all over them. They don't really need the 'off the line' shots. Call it 'innovative' if you wish to put it positively, which I do. Not that they can't execute those either. The beauty is that, they really don't need to take such risks; their 'normal' shots can carry them, and often their teams, over the line. Think beyond the current euphoria. Kohli does have good company to carry on the good old trade.

I get the same vibe about pacers too. Amir, Bumrah, Chameera, Musatfiz, Rabada et al have emerged as fresh new talents, giving hope, that dead pitches will not kill that tribe.

Newly emerging spinners don't get the same attention. But, It isn't their fault!

sanjeevmukherjee2006
on March 28, 2016, 11:39 GMT

With folded hands i say thank you to sl bd pak afghan fans. We wish all these teams all the best

Ramiz Haider
on March 28, 2016, 11:29 GMT

If India wins this world cup Kohli would be like Maradona of WC 86
This tournament will be remembered more for Kohli than Indian Team
And this ability of Kohli make him a touch above even Sachin Tendulkar

cricwar4184
on March 28, 2016, 11:23 GMT

I am still surprised, how this guy have not won a single IPL, even he is having Gayle and AB in his team. Hope this year he will win IPL also.

ssmalli
on March 28, 2016, 11:17 GMT

@sumit1982 pandya consistently bowls at 135 - 140 KMPH the issue is not speed it is the exprrience.

Justanother Human
on March 28, 2016, 11:14 GMT

The Indian team gave the perfect send off to Watson yesterday. For all the big talk made by the Aussies during the test series that individual brilliance won't win you matches, they fell apart like a pack of cards when Kohli launched his assault. In order to win the world cup, the players should respect the format. Selecting a bigbash side just before the world cup and not giving importance to T20 format are the main reasons for the defeat.

Imthiyaz_Haniffa
on March 28, 2016, 11:03 GMT

India winnings came through One Man show of Virat. He kept his cool and made sure India through in every match. Great entertainer. I think he's already taken over the reputations over many greats. Yes Virat is Magical!

MEMORYLOSS-RECTIFIED
on March 28, 2016, 11:01 GMT

Yesterday one similarity is West Indies, Australia Women team won, men lost. For India, women team lost, men won.

sumit1982
on March 28, 2016, 10:56 GMT

It's time Dhoni must take some strong steps it's good for team drop dhawan bring rahane and drop pandya bring Harbhajan/negi. With pandya pace i Gayle company will murdered him in his four over. I Quiet surprise such downfall from a player like Raina who used to be more agressive than Kholi.

Shufal
on March 28, 2016, 10:55 GMT

I was supporting Aussi and I was very frustrated by those shots of Kohli specially on 18th & 19th overs. And then I realized, I was actually amused by how He played! Simply beautiful.

Flemo_Gilly
on March 28, 2016, 10:52 GMT

I completely agree with boof, we need better scheduling to allow our team to better prepare for such tournaments, smith and boof did a great job given how tough our pool was. Kohli's innings was just phenomenal and Australia had no one capable of stopping him. India have long been a better T20 side than Australia and in these conditions are so comfortable. Australia got lucky that India weren't in great touch coming in to this game, particularly with the bat, but they couldn't capitalise on this. Australia's Their batting was awful after the first 4-over burst…from 0-53 after four overs they should have made 180 with their eyes closed. Our death bowling was poor, after bowling really well in the first 17 overs. Khawaja gave us the best start and got us to 50 within 4 overs but then our middle order just didn't capitalise. Zampa was a great find and khawaja our leading run scorer, but our death bowling badly needs starc back. Kohli has left me in awe

Abhishek Pattnaik
on March 28, 2016, 10:50 GMT

LANCIA71 ON MARCH 28, 2016, 9:39 GMT
I have seen Tendulkar, Lara, Sanga, Ponting but Kholi seems to be in a different league...........Yes u have seen tendulkar and Lara but you have not seen them in their prime for sure . And bowling quality was much better then .

gaziraihan88
on March 28, 2016, 10:48 GMT

It's never important how you qualify for knockouts as long you've got big match players in the team.In 2012,WI lost against SL in super 8 and in a virtual quarterfinal against NZ in their last group match,won the match in super over after scoring 139 batting first.SL prospects looked much bleak in 2014.After losing against England,they scored just 119 against NZ in another virtual quarterfinal in last group match,but a superb Herath spell got them out of jail.India have been living on edge since their opening day defeat to NZ,but with Dhawan,Rohit,Kohli,Dhoni,Ashwin,Jadeja,Yuvraj,Nehra,India have plenty of experienced&big match players.In big semis&finals,composure is as much important as skills and although New Zealand,West Indies,England has done well so far to reach the semis,their lack of enough experienced players of such matches means they are always in danger of crumbling under pressure,so it's Indian players job to make that experience and home advantage count.

Downtheorder
on March 28, 2016, 10:46 GMT

....and so what was the point of Agar's trip to India?

kanad_Boston
on March 28, 2016, 10:37 GMT

Generations to come and believe such a batsman ever existed and played on the cricket grounds of the world.

Another Tendulkar on the horizon. Ge ahead mighty India.

Hariom Dahad
on March 28, 2016, 10:34 GMT

Ya Kohli finished for India in Magical way but That doesn't mean it was only Kohli there. The way India bowled in middle n death over was equaly important..otherwise aussies could have easily near or above 200 like they did against Pak.. @those arguing changes in team..You are wasting your own time guys..MS Never going to change winning combo..why to change..they won now 13 of last 15..so have some patience..Rohit Dhawan wil make u Dance in Wankhede..

GlennOz
on March 28, 2016, 10:27 GMT

Is the World T20 slog fest finished already.... who won it ? obviously not Australia, no dancing in the streets that I have seen. Haha

shayalmathew
on March 28, 2016, 10:11 GMT

For all who support Yuvrajs effort full inningses in recent time, How can you think India cannot find a better in form player in his position ? Dhawan, Raina and paniya also has to replace with other good, consistant players in recent times. Don't say they are the best shot available in India

cvenka
on March 28, 2016, 10:07 GMT

To all who commented that India's win against BD was a fluke and that if that match was lost, India would not have been able to reach semifinal irrespective of winning against Australia due to low NRR , let me put things in perspective.
1. When BD were batting, they required 17 runs at the start of 19th over bowled by bumrah. They could achieve only 6 runs in that over making them to need 11 runs in the final over which they squandered
2. When India batted, they required 20 runs at the start of the 19th over. When that over was over, it boiled down to 4 runs to make in the final over which was achieved IN 1 BALL
So the turning point in both the matches was the 19th over which were won by India by bowling that tight over against BD & murdering NCN for 4 boundaries enabling them to reach the semifinal.If India lost to BD even though they could have achieved their objective of making the semifinal by planning their run rate accordingly
BECAUSE THEY HAD Virat Kohli! PERIOD

gazzac
on March 28, 2016, 9:53 GMT

It's a really good argumemt about who is the best when you look across all three formats at the moment - no doubt its Kohli in t20 and odi, and Smith in tests based on recent form but in general across all three hard to go past Root (assuming you give more weighting to test stats) surprised at ABDs t20 stats otherwise he would be the man. Throw captaincy in there and Kane Williamson has to be there or there abouts too

Ramesh shivdasan
on March 28, 2016, 9:52 GMT

India won the match not Kohli, every team member had some or the other role in it. Cricket is not an individual sport. Why do so many people pick on Rohit, Dhawan, Raina and even Yuvraj. They did not go for a duck at that, they were on the field bowling, saving runs, taking catches, backing up throws, celebrating, boosting the morale and all. A team is like a family win together and also lose together. You stick with your family through all ups and downs and not dump them at the first sign of trouble. Thats what makes a person true a true leader and true captain which is Dhoni. I find it distressing to read all these calls for retribution even after India wins. Dhoni is not just the captain of the Indian cricket team he is a true leader of men. Its a game you may not always win but you can always choose to do the right thing.

CricSriLanka
on March 28, 2016, 9:49 GMT

Just loved the innings of Kholi. Kholi-Dhoni running between wicket was excellent. Other than that it was a struggle for India.

o.m.nousath
on March 28, 2016, 9:47 GMT

Australians known if they didn't got out kohli then the match out-of their hand , yesterday again it's proved . they best knock in T20 cricket .all shots are proper cricket shots.well-done India.

rahulch123
on March 28, 2016, 9:45 GMT

What shameless comments by people here slamming yuvraj and his presence. These guys writing here seems to have very little knowledge of cricket and knows best what is easy doing, criticizing. It was a magical innings by Virat, no doubt. Yuvi and Virat had done it before in last 3-4 matches. Yuvi's role ha changed and he is more of a support to the team. Even Virat acknowledged that, anything more needed. He is handy with the ball whenever required. Kudo's to the selectors for bringing in the experience of Yuvraj an Nehra. Yuvu was batting in pain and that showed the determination. He got out before wanted to hit out since he was not able to run. What we saw yesterday was his timing. He was freely stroking the ball.

Behind_the_bowlers_arm
on March 28, 2016, 9:41 GMT

Worrying in the post match interview when questioned about Zampa that Smith seemed to think he had bowled 3 overs.
Major blunder not to give him the full four overs.
Result may not have been different but think he would have presented more of a challenge than Hazlewood, C-N & Faulkner who were just fodder in the last 5.
Australia never really got going in this tournament but was a major step forward for Zampa. Bowled cleverly and he looks a scrapper.
A bit like a Pakistani leg spinner .... that's meant to be a compliment.
Certainly has something about him. Would rather see him go to Sri Lanka for the Test series with Lyon rather than Agar.

lancia71
on March 28, 2016, 9:39 GMT

I have seen Tendulkar, Lara, Sanga, Ponting but Kholi seems to be in a different league. I may be wrong and I am no cricketing pundit but seen all those mentioned names in the flesh but no one gave that feeling " I am the boss" like Kholi does. A true champion and maybe we are seeing the best batsman to walk on this planet. A sri Lankan fan!

There are magnificent structures and then there is a Taj Mahal.
There are dazzling diamonds and then there is a Kohinoor.
There are Virat Kohli's innings and then there was this gem in Mohali.
No reverse or switch hits, no muscled heaves across the lines, no dillscoopes.
Only the cool, the panache, the execution of skills, the audacity as never seen before.
Love & Respect from SA.

tanstell87
on March 28, 2016, 9:27 GMT

King Kohli take a bow !!! In ICC tournaments, India & Australia cant progress without knocking each other. In 1999& 2003 WC, it was Australia....India beat & knocked out Australia in 2000 Champions Trophy, 2007 WT20 & 2011 WC, Australia returned the favour in 2015 WC last year. India again stopped the Aussies last night at World T20, lets see what happens next year in Champions Trophy. Good to see even our Southern rivals Sri Lankans congratulating Team India. Thank You.

Abhishek Pattnaik
on March 28, 2016, 9:25 GMT

Kohli is probably best in odi and t20 right now . But in test , I am very doubtful . He has a lot to prove to prove in tests .

@MARTINMOHA: "No doubt kohli is a classic player but should't forget that at the moment India is having luxury of their grounds, people and luck". Luck? Ok, we'll just count that as sour grapes and leave that aside. As for our grounds and people, I don't remember the result being too different when Kohli and co thrashed the Aussies 3-0 on your grounds and in front of your people.

@IITWALE: Ha Ha, I think you're mistaken, I presume you're referring to MSD. 'Lucky' wasn't for him, but other players who are riding their luck in the team because of Kohli's stellar performances. But wait, doesn't MSD qualify under that too albeit partially? Be fair when you answer...

Teodorick V Antonio
on March 28, 2016, 9:01 GMT

Some comments show to why Lyon is not in the squad, well for one thing his bowling style does not work much in T20 game, especially his flight bowl will be whack by batsmen in India. Zampa is best picked by his leg break and drift which is useful in slow pitch in India.

Abhishek Pattnaik
on March 28, 2016, 8:57 GMT

EVERYTHINGSEVENTUAL ON MARCH 28, 2016, 4:11 GMT
I do not understand why Kohli needs to be compared to Sachin after every great innings. I personally think that Kohli is a master chaser whereas Sachin was an excellent "setter" of targets. If you think setting targets is easy then why isn't Kohli as good at it. And I am not even getting to the fact that Sachin has produced many good innings while chasing (Desert Storm, 2003 world cup against Pakistan, CB Series finals against Australia..) Is Kohli a better chaser? Definitely yes !! Is Kohli a better target setter? Definitely no !! Is Kohli a better ODI player? Who cares?? We should just rejoice having him in our team........Very well said !

Justanother Human
on March 28, 2016, 8:53 GMT

KOHLI is a modern day legend and this match is yet another example of his greatness.

martinmoha
on March 28, 2016, 8:53 GMT

Usman Khwaja a classic player and to be watched out player in future unfortunate for him since IPL didt't pick him for unknown reason??????
he should have picked at any cost by IPL teams.

Ground-boy
on March 28, 2016, 8:51 GMT

Kohli my son you are the greatest of all. When you hit we win. When some other also a good batsman hit we loose. You are a great hitter who got the measure of the situation. I cannot find a single Aussi comment. We want you to win and proudly secure the cup

thebatsmansHoldingthebowlersWilley
on March 28, 2016, 8:35 GMT

Smith's management of spin-bowlers throughout the tournament was poor - he had a strange reluctance to turn to spin. Zampa was arguably his best bowler but was underbowled which betrayed a lack of faith from his skipper. You can't rely on pace the whole time. Agar dropped after one poor over. Why has Lyon not been given an extended run in the side? Surely he could adapt to this format given time? Smith had a poor tournament all round.

Vijyes Yechuri
on March 28, 2016, 8:32 GMT

Rohit, DHawan and Raina must go. Raina and Dhawan never performed consistently in their long careers. Raina especially enver played even a single knock on bowler friendly pitches. Yuvraj and Jadeja at least bowl well whereas these 3 are totally waste. There is no reason to keep these people in playing 11. Rohit may be given a chance in the future matches once he returns to form as he has performed in the past, but Raina definitely needs to be kicked from international cricket as he has never ever performed in bowler friendly tracks. Also, he has not learned to play bouncers in his career of 10 years. Even a child knows how to get Raina out- bowl short

fairfan70
on March 28, 2016, 8:32 GMT

So many good comments from Aussies for Kohli though their team lost the match. Nice spirit! Pakistani and SL fans have been generous in applauding Kohli. English fans must have been busy with something else and appear to have missed this match, except for Flintoff and Vaughn! :-)

Surya_TheFighter
on March 28, 2016, 8:32 GMT

My prediction its all the way for India to reach final after beat WI, and I certainly feel England will beat NZ, and it will be a final between Ind vs Eng in a spinning and slow track in Kolkata.

India will be the winner, was the first time the winner of 50 WC at home, and first India will be the winner of World T20 at home as well. A farewell to Dhoni and Yuvi at the end.

darth_whore
on March 28, 2016, 8:29 GMT

The turning point of the match was Maxwell's dismissal. He got out at a juncture where, had he stayed, 180 was bare minimum. 160 with Australia's average bowling attack was never enough. It required one batsman to get in and score big and others to rally around him and thats exactly what happened. Though Virat chased the score, which was given, the game was won by the bowlers. 52 for none in 4 overs to 160 in 20 overs is a remarkable feat. It really shows the versatility of this team's bowling unit. Rohit and Shikhar have to step up their game and give fast starts. Doesn't matter if they get out in the process as this team has got good depth in batting. 60/2 after the powerplay is always better than 35/0.

Siva_Bala75
on March 28, 2016, 8:26 GMT

Kohli, AB, Gayle and Watson in RCB- the team to beat!

thebatsmansHoldingthebowlersWilley
on March 28, 2016, 8:21 GMT

Smith took a real risk asking India to chase. Kohli is the best finisher in the world. It backfired badly on Smith. Well played Kohli - super knock under intense pressure. Australia again struggling to adapt on slower pitches, their batting fell away badly after that electric start, they should have got 170-175

BHAARATVARSH
on March 28, 2016, 8:18 GMT

My favourite side of the competition has been Afghanistan. Love the spirit! I can only see a bright future for this team. They will be giving a hard run to everyone else here-on. Bangladesh is no more a "minnow". The cub has grown into a full blown tiger. Sri Lanka is going through some change pains but I'm sure with the amount of natural talent available in the country they will be bouncing (or slinging?!) back in no time. Pakistan never had a dearth of talent - always surprised with the amount of bowling heroes they produce. However, they need someone like a Abbas/ Anwar/ Miandad and that should sort them out in the batting department for a good 10 years or so. . Not to forget Nepal. Very good prospect, but needs lot of work. BCCI should spend more money and arrange bi-lateral ties with all our neighbours. Can only be good for cricket. Meanwhile, looking forward to see Mustafizur bowling in IPL!!

Poovhenden
on March 28, 2016, 8:18 GMT

Something has to been done with the trio...especially Rohit Sharma....who throws away his wicket after the fall of the first one.

stuckwithcricket
on March 28, 2016, 8:16 GMT

Undoubtedly best match of the tournament.

martinmoha
on March 28, 2016, 8:16 GMT

No doubt kohli is a classic player but should't forget that at the moment India is having luxury of their grounds, people and luck...

Brittorrent
on March 28, 2016, 8:11 GMT

Dont understand why DRS is banned (for LBW)
how many wrong decisions has DRS made?
and how many batsman have protested against a DRS lbw decision against them?

BHAARATVARSH
on March 28, 2016, 8:08 GMT

The most beautiful thing for me about this whole Kohli affair has been the adulations from our sub-continental neighbours. Cricket is the ultimate winner! Love from India.

Cricketlover54
on March 28, 2016, 8:08 GMT

Kohli is now my new favourite cricketer, of all time. From a SL fan.

affanhaider
on March 28, 2016, 8:07 GMT

what a player, what a man, as a Pakistani fan, there was a time I didn't like him, thought he was too cocky ... but wow, he has just transformed into a world beater and matured much as a person too ... speechless ... such a pleasure to watch

MASTER_BATOR
on March 28, 2016, 8:01 GMT

Will Yuvraj play for the semi final or will India go for an extra batsman in Mumbai?

srinivasan1317
on March 28, 2016, 7:59 GMT

I think Virat is the superhero scripting the T20 World Cup this year. Without him, we India have no business being in the semi-finals. All the best to him for the next two important matches.

Brittorrent
on March 28, 2016, 7:55 GMT

@C4NINJA "India are nothing without Kohli"
I agree..likewise WI are nothing without Gayle...

Stanman1985
on March 28, 2016, 7:47 GMT

Kohli - the best batsman in the world.

vkumar_086
on March 28, 2016, 7:41 GMT

@Pak fans & @ Eng fans...thank you for your support for TEAM INDIA...some Eng fans commented in the preview page that it need a miracle from OZ to pull this off, otherwise India are favourite to win this...excellent judgement...hope Eng & India meets in final & we will get Kohli vs Root show...

Well played Aussie team, impressed by Smith's words during presentation...

Brittorrent
on March 28, 2016, 7:38 GMT

so its Gayle vs Kohli in the semi-final.
based on form WI should just win - cant count Afganistan match as WI (I mean Gayle) didnt turn up.

iitwale
on March 28, 2016, 7:36 GMT

@ONEIRODYNE: careful there with 'lucky', no matter what Virat does he will only be the second best player in the team, till 'lucky' retires.

cvenka
on March 28, 2016, 7:35 GMT

They Said, When Potassium Hydroxide(KOH) Is Added with Lithium(Li) it becomes Explosive Reagent.
Well said.."KOH+LI=KOHLI"

Bishop
on March 28, 2016, 7:32 GMT

@BMike: While I agree that Smith copped a tough decision, it is a little silly to say with any certainty what he would have gone on to do, or not do. All the Australian batsmen struggled once the ball got older, including Finch who was one of the ones doing the damage. Also remember that while Smith has been incredibly successful at the red ball game, he is yet to prove his credentials in the shortest form - he is not ranked 94th for nothing.

It was a fabulous match, and Virat Kohli gave an absolute masterclass in batting. Brilliant.

Cricinfouser
on March 28, 2016, 7:30 GMT

india are nothing without kohli

lakshman_4cricinfo
on March 28, 2016, 7:29 GMT

It's one Man show Virat Kholi !!! Great champion of chaser !!!,how much a team can depend on one batsman,What is the role of other batsmen in the team? Both our openers are irresponsible and not in any kind of form.VIRAT is under extreme pressure. Why Dhoni stick to same 11 ? y not rahane instead of Dhavan and Raina can come down the order !!! Dhoni should change strategy at least from semis ,if two wickets fall early send Pandya or yuvaraj ahead of Raina...

risk142007
on March 28, 2016, 7:12 GMT

That was one of the hell inning from Kohli. India lost to New Zealand and in presentation Kohli said, i took all the blame of india's loosing as if i were there with MS then we both can win for india. Ultimately, awesomely fine chase in the given circumstances.

Omkar Karle
on March 28, 2016, 7:10 GMT

Kind request to all, please stop Kohli's comparison with Gavaskar & Tendulkar. Both are legends who have inspired a generation.

They were the best during their times, playing the brand of Cricket played then, with the resources available then.

Cricket is a constantly evolving game & hence players of different era cannot be compared.

sundersingh
on March 28, 2016, 7:09 GMT

It's amazing how Fans from other countries, taking negatives( relying on one player) from a match where VK pulled off a master class against a world class team like Australia, guys go and ask him, he knows the value of a team morale, I am 100% sure other players will come good in the upcoming matches... so don't worry guys!!! Bcoz ,we have got so much to plan for the upcoming matches, (To the concerning other team fans)Take the drawing board out and plan for the future of your countries!!!

moizkiani5
on March 28, 2016, 7:06 GMT

Being a Pakistani: Congrutulations to India for semi final birth. And really enjoy to watch the kohli inning. For me he is the greatest player. I wish india will lift the trophy and trophy come again in asia. For me 1st team always a Pakistan and then india and Asian team

JG2704
on March 28, 2016, 7:06 GMT

Congrats India. Kohli sure is a master and a leader and I feel MS should have handed him the reins before now. I still don't see why we need the comms comparing him to other modern day younger players. Kohli , Williamson , Smith and Root are all decent players and all pretty much at the same level.

VenkatChetlur
on March 28, 2016, 7:03 GMT

In this decade, Aus have been found wanting every time they've stepped out of the comforts of home grounds. And notwithstanding that we keep hearings things about Smith being the best batsman around, Maxwell being dynamite and of late Khawaja being infallible. For a very long time India did that - imagined that fantastic results at home was reason enough to expect things to work when we traveled. How things have changed!

deshwani
on March 28, 2016, 7:02 GMT

I must have to say that Kohli is a greatest and legend batsman of all time history of cricket, he is the one and only since cricket is playing.. but one bad thing for India is if Kohli get out quickly then India will definitely lose every match because he has been one man show now for India and whole Indian team is depending only on him. example against NZ and BD he got out quickly and India managed very low total.. anyway love from Pakistani fan.

bMike
on March 28, 2016, 6:55 GMT

Though it was a good inning by Kohli in a batting wicket Australians were just unlucky on the day. India's best bowler Ashwin was hit for consecutive sixes out of the park implies it wasn't a threatening bowling attack. If Steven Smith didn't get a harsh decision considering how Khawaja and Finch had been scoring Australia would have ended up scoring 200+ runs which is beyond reach. Smith is Australia's best batsman who has scored back to back centuries in almost every match against India. Also their best bowler Starc is injured. Unless luck went India's way in that nail biting thriller with Bangladesh Australia would make semis even before this match. Luck doesn't go your way every time. Though WI would have played a close match with Afghanistan without their most inform batsmen Gayle and Fletcher, this WI side is far superior. I haven't seen WI thrashing any team that badly after early 90's. Good luck for them..Pls publish

masibulele9999
on March 28, 2016, 6:55 GMT

A truly special knock from a Kohli! Reminds me of the one he played against SA in the previous T20 World semi or the one Mike Hussey played vs Pakistan in the 2010 edition!

android_user
on March 28, 2016, 6:52 GMT

@kasif i think Indian trio dhawan raina and Rohit needs a training session from virat first.

NP_NY
on March 28, 2016, 6:49 GMT

@SAMIULLAH: Thanks for your wishes! We really hope Afghanistan will play a bilateral in India this year. Your team has all the potential to be a top contender in the upcoming years. Everyone around the world have loved the Afghans' enthusiasm and fighting spirit in this tournament.

FawadAlam4Lyfe
on March 28, 2016, 6:46 GMT

so after all the talk of talent and technique, the team that played the most intelligently is the only undefeated team as of now.

aJourneyer
on March 28, 2016, 6:45 GMT

Tendulkar was all about raising his bat on 3 figures. Kohli is a lot about assuring India's win. Not to forget Kohli carries Rohit-Shikhar-Raina's weight in most games.

suneej
on March 28, 2016, 6:45 GMT

Even though Australia got the great t20 players of all time,they never had success in this particular format. One of the reason is they never played like a team. They have had few success in this format due to some exceptional individual performances. Playing as one unit in short span of time is what success in t20s. Another reason is they never had a suitable captain for this format..Captaincy is an important factor in t20s.One over/fielding change make huge impact on the result of the match. One of the reason India is consistent is because of MS Dhonis captaincy. He manages the chaos with cool head. At times as a captain you have to deal with more panic situations than a five test match..How you manage brings the success ..That is why Dhoni arguably the best captain in limited over cricket...

pavelhasnat
on March 28, 2016, 6:41 GMT

When ind bit bd by dramatically that time i knew Ind will lift the wc.
Kholi is magical player.awoseme to see such type of brilliant knock . Best t20 innings ever... From bd.

MBIOF
on March 28, 2016, 6:39 GMT

Had Yuvraj played one more over, India was out. Not just because Yuvraj was injured, but he somehow manages to stuck in the innings and finds hard to move on. It brings pressure on the batsman at the other end. It again and again reminds me the final of 2014 T20 Ind vs Sri Lanka, where Yuvraj snatched the defeat out of the mouth of victory for India. Rahane must play instead of Raina. Raina or No Raina doesnt matters to scoreboard.
India is over dependent on Kohli. In the recent past, the matches where India lost, are the matches where Kohli failed. Kohli after all the greatness, is a human being, and cant save India in each and every match. These are knockouts and Rohit, Dhawan, Raina and Yuvraj should follow Kohli, otherwise NZ will be the champion.

JamKam
on March 28, 2016, 6:35 GMT

Congratulations Team India from a BD fan.

Vaishak13
on March 28, 2016, 6:34 GMT

People,please don't compare.If Gavaskar was the inspiration for Sachin,the latter was one for hundreds of kids including Virat.And when such players appear,they make d next world class player indirectly,and pass the baton on when they retire,like SRT and Kohli.People like Sachin made India believe,it's youth believe that India cud win against the best sides like Australia.Virat wil now be the same.

PPL11
on March 28, 2016, 6:30 GMT

Excellent performance by India, First in Bowling, Nehra doing great first up then Bumrah's Death Bowling, Yuvi's Special, Sir Jadeja's Bowling and ever improving fielding, Then come Master Kohli with Bat with Yuvi the fighter and then Dhoni was there to hit the final punch, Well done India !!

Paki-Shaikh
on March 28, 2016, 6:30 GMT

Being a Pakistani. must appreciate to Kohli. he played a gem knock.
Dhoni/India is very lucky that they have Kohli in the team.

Kashif Rasheed Alvi
on March 28, 2016, 6:27 GMT

Virat Kholi no doubt one of the best and finest batsman of current era. Its a delight to watch him bat. Shall he arrange a training session of Pakistani batting line up.

NujSl
on March 28, 2016, 6:25 GMT

i really want India to win this match ( most of the sri lankans were expecting the same) as we need an asian to win this cup but i never thought that india would loose as long as kholi is there on the crease , to be honest Kholi is better batsmen than tendulkar , lara and Aravinda & many others , #legend #kholi best of luck india for semis

YesKayR
on March 28, 2016, 6:25 GMT

While it was magic in the 18th & 19th over with boundaries galore, by cricketing shots by Kohli, let us not forget the 16th over by Hazlewood, in which 12 runs were scored with just one boundary and madly run singles & twos, which was very crucial. These are aspects some tend to overlook, but very very critical. That speaks volumes about the fitness level of kohli and dhoni. Also the two runs they ran on the last ball of 18th over which enabled Kohli to be on strike for the 19th over. These little BIG things make a huge difference.. well done Kohli and dhoni.. Also commendable was the 18th over bowled by nehra in which only 4 runs were conceded. Also commendable is the faith shown by Dhoni on Bumrah & Pandya.. something to learn for leaders even in corporate world. It is fo Bumrah and Pandya to repay with improved performances in the future..

Anil.Sivudu
on March 28, 2016, 6:23 GMT

Smith's bizarre tactics cost them WCT20 Semi-Final (SF) berth by not:
1.Opening the innings with Warner. Finch and Warner should have opened followed by Khawaja.
2.Selecting Starc for Hazlewood and Mitch Marsh for Coulter-Nile. Both could have provided bowling/batting penetration.
3.Bowling full-quota to Zampa.
India is still riding luck despite the repeated failures from the top order. Coming into SF, I don't think Dhoni would rake in changes but would be interesting to see if he can surprise not only WI but India by selecting Rahane for Dhawan and Negi for Raina. India will surely do well without these non-performing players. Rohit is still in the reckoning for his envious record against WI in home conditions since the match is being played at Mumbai. I see no reason why people are calling Yuvi's skin. On most occasions, he had to walk in pressure situations and delivered what the team required of him. It's going to be a lip-smacking contest on March 31. May the best team win.

Mubzz Khan
on March 28, 2016, 6:23 GMT

kohli was just immaculate.People match the likes of williamson and root with kohli but he is by far greatest among them.India required 12 an over but look at his game awareness he was jus trying to find gaps no slogging but pure classical batting.I wish if we could hv a batsmen half of Kohli's calliber in our Pakistan side we wouldnt be humiliated that much in cricket,against newzealan Pakistani batsmen struggled to find boundries just bcz they dont hv game awareness n they were just trying to hit it over long or long off but were'nt thinking of finding gaps may be they are'nt good enough..

Dramit Singh
on March 28, 2016, 6:20 GMT

l am sure that now aussie fans and their team would definitely get nightmares of virat kohli the way he has hammered the aussie bowling not only yesterday but in Australia too.actually I don't have any words about kohli but one thing I can definitely say that virat kohli is currently the best batsman in the world way way ahead from smith,joe root,butler or ab devilliears.thank you virat for making mother india proud once again.but I guess the likes of rohit,dhawan,raina and yuvi are not contributing with the bat and in particular I am dissapointed from the performance of raina who doesnt look in any form whatsever.now we have to play the semifinals against westindies in mumbai where the pitch is bouncy and pacy plus it's a high scoring venue too.in mumbai fast bowlers will definitely get some assistance from the pitch if the bowlers bowl in the right areas.

Cricinfouser
on March 28, 2016, 6:19 GMT

Brilliant innings from VK. Always looked under control and even when Yuvi was not able convert those 1's into 2's VK maintained his calm. He has amazing confidence and be knows he can change the track of the game at will. And at the age of 34 or so MSD can outsprint anybody and everybody and he proved it with his running between the wkts today. He was taking on the throwing arm of the likes of Maxwell, Warner and he came out on top every single time. hats off MSD.

FawadAlam4Lyfe
on March 28, 2016, 6:18 GMT

The only thing Australia could have done that might have won them the game is to bowl first instead. When plating against a team that has Kohli in a T20i, unless the pitch is turning square and is going to worsen AND you have at least 2 good spinners, you have to chase, as Kohli's record in chases is phenomenal.

ramkip
on March 28, 2016, 6:15 GMT

I somehow feel that NZ is going to lose the semifinal to England. But technically, NZ should win as the Kotla wicket to suit their strength in this tournament. Prefer England in the finals to play India (obviously ;-)).
Rohit is going to boss around on his home ground. Rahane (another Mumbai lad) instead of Shikar???
Yuvi has been playing crucial innings of late but not getting noticed. In the last few games which India won, he was the first one to get the partnership built (40+ runs) to steady after the customary 3 wickets have fallen for a small score.

FawadAlam4Lyfe
on March 28, 2016, 6:07 GMT

Somebody on cricinfo wrote an article the other day describing the difference between Kohli and Tendulkar, saying that Tendulkar gives you hope, Kohli gives you certainty. This match is perhaps the best example of this. While Kohli was at the crease, I was certain India would chase it. However, if it was Tendulkar at the crease, I would have hoped that he could pull it off.

mahendra1
on March 28, 2016, 6:03 GMT

Awesome and masterclass batting by Kohli. Up to 17th over pendulum was swinging to Australia, but Swing back to Indian in 18th over.
Not to forget Nehra Ji's first wicket, which controlled the run flow of Australia.

venkatesh018
on March 28, 2016, 6:03 GMT

In hindsight, Steve Smith should have given Zampa another over, the 15th over of the innings, when Dhoni was new at the crease and even Kohli was not succeeding in hitting the leggie out of the attack. I think the Aussie captain missed a trick there.

ImonG
on March 28, 2016, 6:00 GMT

High time Shikhar Rohit and Raina join the party. Can't expect Virat to bail us out every time. It's crucial in the semis that we get a good start.

Oneirodyne
on March 28, 2016, 6:00 GMT

The fact that Rohit, Dhawan, Raina and Yuvi have not clicked till now is a strange but big bonus for team India. Law of averages will catch up and the chances of couple of these batsmen firing in semis / finals is pretty high now. Asia cup finals and Dhawan! I'm anticipating that India will bring out their 'A' game now...

forExcelienceInCricket
on March 28, 2016, 5:59 GMT

Kohli's exceptional batting supported by Yuvi & MSD helped IND chase down a par score of 160 by AUS. This has to be Kohli's best innings so far in a knockout match in shorter format of the game. His measured approach to batting in recent times is a great sign for IND & even greater performances could well be in pipeline. Earlier AUS made a whirlwind start scoring 54 in 4.2 overs & looked on course for a score of 180-200. Excellent bowler rotation by MSD helped IND restrict AUS about 20-30 runs short of a defendable total. The matches v BD & AUS demonstrated why MSD is the best ever Captain in all forms of Cricket in history of the game. Before start of T20WC 2016 based on team potential the top 6 teams were 1. IND 2. SA 3. NZ 4. ENG 5. AUS 6. WI. IND despite their loss in the opening match v NZ are the best team in T20WC 2016. Contrary to predictions of some IND have deservingly qualified for SF. If IND play to potential in remaining matches another world title is on cards for them.

thozar
on March 28, 2016, 5:59 GMT

Kohli is the best batsman in the world. I have said it several times in the past. But then people throw names like Smith, Williamson, and Root who are only good but not great. Kohli was alteady a great. Now it is proven that he is not just better than the above 3 but better than AB and Amla also.

anupkeni
on March 28, 2016, 5:56 GMT

If 20-20 cricket was as predictable a format of cricket as 50-50 cricket is, then Australia would have won atleast three editions of the T20 World Cup by now. The fact that Australia hasn't been able to win a T20 World Cup even once in 6 attempts, clearly shows that T20 is an unpredictable format where one bad over in batting or bowling can change the course of the the match and it is very difficult to recover unlike in 50-50 or a test match.

Ground-boy
on March 28, 2016, 5:53 GMT

Immaculate inning by Kohli. Good team work India. Only sub-continent team prevailed in the middle of the sub-continent. Now they face Gayl's WI and then they have to break the deadlock against NZ or murder Morgan's side. Sorry AUS conceded 6th defeat to IND. Overall it was a good match and entertainingly second super 10 stage match.

tvumpire.com
on March 28, 2016, 5:52 GMT

Excellent innings by Kohli. Congrats to Tam India. So, all the favourits of Electro - SL, Pak, SA, Aus are out. Hope he will predict, Eng and WI wins and Eng. won cup. So that India, NZ can meet again in finals and India can win it. BTW, small advice to BD fans: do not celebrate before it is over. Your player did the mistake last match and now you. It was funny to see your premature celebrations.

Samiullah Weesa
on March 28, 2016, 5:51 GMT

Final without Indian team will not be so much interesting, so hopes for this team in the final and even with keeping the cup not go abroad.
Congratulations to all Indians
Samiullah from Afghanistan

DhoniManiac
on March 28, 2016, 5:49 GMT

I don't know why everyone are calling for Raina's head. I would sort of agree when India plays away from sub continent but here is an asset. Fields brilliantly anywhere and every time. Bowls some crucial overs.. Picks wickets.. Keeps the runs down when the main bowlers get trashed.. Contributes with the bat too. The only problem now is he gets out in important stages coming in at 4. May be 6 is the right position for him. Either MS can try himself or promote Pandya at 4. But Dhawan must be dropped no excuses on that front. Yes he was instrumental i in India winning a Champions Trophy but he had got far many chances than what he deserved. Time for Rahane or some youngster like Bumrah and Pandya. May be Shreyas Iyer can do the job in the future as an opener. Manish Pandey at no 4. Rohit is good player to miss out for long. I think he will come back strong in semis and finals.

Sammhere78
on March 28, 2016, 5:44 GMT

Amazing innings kohli!!! We will win the cup this time:)

sankaramenon
on March 28, 2016, 5:43 GMT

There are no superlatives adequate to describe Kohli's batting display at Mohali. The beautiful part of it was that there was no slogging but only classical cricketing shots. Contributions from others though small were still significant to cross the target. Kudos to all. Eventually others will come good.Let us wish them well for the next to matches

Naresh28
on March 28, 2016, 5:41 GMT

Although Yuvi has not played like his old self, he has been the best partner for
Kohli on two occassions. He still commands respect from the opposition. Like
Watson this may be his last - lets win the WC for him.

rajuramki
on March 28, 2016, 5:37 GMT

Kohli is by far the best chaser in the world when it comes to the shorter forms of cricket . Dhoni is one of the best finishers . The way Kohli sizes up the situation and plays accordingly is amazing . Though Kohli is very aggressive , he is getting mellowed of late , which is a good sign for the team and ominous for the opposition. Another good show by Kohli in the SF is in the offing . However , Rohit , Dhawan and Raina have been playing irresponsibly . A rare failure from Kohli will bring an abrupt end to India's quest for the title . There is no cause for alarm about Ashwin's economy being on the rise , as he has conceded runs only when he bowls in the lower play ,when the batsmen have the licence to go after any bowler . After the game against Australia , India has become a strong contender for the title .

ranga_sk
on March 28, 2016, 5:33 GMT

Come on KOHLI!! Bring it home, though this time a day later than 5 years!! Let's end the wait, India needs to celebrate. Hope we get NZ in the finals and break the jinx of not having beaten them, with yet another masterclass!!

M.G.AnnAd
on March 28, 2016, 5:31 GMT

Excellent innings by Virat Kohli. At one stage he and Dhoni had to chase 60+ runs in 5 overs, looked very difficult at that time against Aussie bowling/fielding. Kudos to India. I hope rest of the Indian batsmen perform in the Semi final, they owe it to Virat. All the best team India. Jai Hind.

It was heartening to see Angelo almost take Lanka to victory against England, Lankan team is in transition and I am sure they will build a very good team since losing classic Sanga, Mahila and Malinga. Dinesh and Angelo are very good and the others can rally around them in the future.

Pakistan had a much better performance than Asia cup. Great performance by Sharjeel, Hafeez, Amir, Malik and Afridi. This will be a great team after they rebuild post Afridi.

As a South Asian, proud to say Bangladesh(almost won against IN) and Afghans are the most improved team in recent past with excellent talent, they have earned respect of World cricket fans due to their hard wk,attitude and performance.

rayaan2011
on March 28, 2016, 5:29 GMT

What a game!!! Kohli you gr8, Master of chases. Well done India, now its in Mumbai ...batting pitch hope rest of the Indian players score some runs. There is no point blaming yuvraj for his innings, whenever he came to bat India were in trouble 12/3 vs NZ, 22/3 vs PAK & now 49/3 vs AUS, he was in huge pressure, he took his time and played wonderfully with Kohli, he build the partnership and laid the foundation for lower orders to finish the game off. I am happy finally he got to bowl and he really did well, he has to be careful with his footstep and try to reduce bowling wides. Hope Rohit and Raina fires on 31st... good luck !! :)

This knock will validate Kane's strategy of playing slower bowlers in this tourney - so Virat will have to face Sodhi, Santner, Anderson, Elliott, maybe N McCullum and Mitchell McLenaghan. It will be a superb contest. India at home will be very hard to beat. Go the Black Caps!

OnlyKK
on March 28, 2016, 5:27 GMT

Right now Indian team has two pillars; Dhoni's captaincy & Kohli's batting. Kohli has already proved his worth and class as a batsman. Captaincy will definetly test him as Dhoni's time to hang his boot is approaching fast.

Malx
on March 28, 2016, 5:24 GMT

After the Ashes debacle, no one lost their jobs, NO new coach, batting or bowling , no new main coach, no new back room staff or new selectors.
All are still there !
After this debacle, I bet all these so called hangers on will go in hiding !
Rod Marsh should go first!!

himanshu.team
on March 28, 2016, 5:23 GMT

Australia was always relying heavily. rather solely, on their batting. All their plans revovled around how thei bases are covered with the bat. They never really had a chance at this cup, with the kind of bowling they have. They are all single dimensional seam bowlers with Zampa being the only 'spinner'. Yet even in spin friendly conditions, he never looked threatening. In the hindsight people may say that he should have bowled two more overs. But Yuvi, Kohli or Dhoni could have easily fed on his gentle spinners and closed the match even earlier.
I also feel that both England and WI are quite weak too. It will be an India-NZ final and it promises to be a mouthwatering prospect.

Darius19880701
on March 28, 2016, 5:23 GMT

oh man Respect to Kholi great innings

jimmi73
on March 28, 2016, 5:22 GMT

How to take responsibilities, one should learn from Kohli, from last 1 & half month, he is showing & taking his responsibilities, He is major contributor of Indian wins. Great Inning .

As a pakistani , i must congratulate the indian team on their success. The genius of Kohli comes once in a century and there's none that comes even close to his class in the world at this stage! #LivingLegend

Fijicricket
on March 28, 2016, 5:12 GMT

The moment Yuraj was out, Indias win was in sight. Watson will forever regret taking the catch!

Cricinfouser
on March 28, 2016, 5:12 GMT

Whatever the attitudes of kohli, he is the best batsman of the era. Hatsoff his pressure handling ability, no one can able to handle pressure like this man. Congrats india from sl fan. Oz are overrated from selection, they drop bailey and then let down finch from captaincy and team. Team selection and captain is costed for them.

ranga_sk
on March 28, 2016, 5:06 GMT

Steve Smith's captaincy left a lot to be desired. As many have pointed out, pretty lacklusture handling of the onlh spin option they had by not bowling him out. That's crazy on indian pitches. Warner doesn't open with Finch!! Baffling. At the end smith says he felt 160 was about a par score for the wicket just to downplay the fact that they were good 25-30 runs short. Pretty strange from an Aussie skipper. So much for their love of T20!!

crrkiran
on March 28, 2016, 5:04 GMT

Reached office and even my boss is discussing kohli knock in this busy march ending. such a great knock

As was the case during Tendulkar, few irresponsible and 'lucky' Indian players are basking in the glory under Kohli.

mrgupta
on March 28, 2016, 4:57 GMT

Its overwhelming to see so much support from Pak, SL and BD fans. Despite all the rivalries we all respect the game. Thanks to all!

Rocky0027
on March 28, 2016, 4:56 GMT

For mumbai drop Dhawan/Rohit and play Pandya at the top, or drop both existing openers and play rahane and pandya. Both these scenarios wont happen and we will be stuck with dhawan and rohit.

raku1982
on March 28, 2016, 4:49 GMT

I wonder if steve smith was out there to prove that india isnt as great chasing totals as they are reputed for. Their approach was aggressive and put up a huge total but could only manage 160. The match was pretty much decided at that moment.

Peter Frost
on March 28, 2016, 4:47 GMT

Well done to India. However serious questions need to asked why Zampa was only required to bowl 2 overs in this loss and 1 over in the loss to the kiwi's. When will we learn fast bowling isn't the only option. Sigh

nikita_karthick
on March 28, 2016, 4:45 GMT

seriously been following cricket for the past 26 years, I haven't seen better innings..

DEEZNUTS_HUH_GOTEEM
on March 28, 2016, 4:43 GMT

I don't know weather most of you agree with this. When Yuvraj got dismissed, India had a target of 67 from 36 balls. If Yuvraj survived that dismissal, India wouldn't have chased down that target. Kohli and Dhoni's running between the wickets made a huge impact on Aussies game plan, period.

abc3
on March 28, 2016, 4:40 GMT

people keep posting about why Steve Smith did not complete Zampa's 2 overs. When team loses fans keep looking for that one excuse of what if scenario. If you were watching the match and a keen observer you would realize that Aus were in comfortable position at that stage where Zampa was not required. Smith was banking on his finishers to do the job for him as the run rate reached 11. Only way to utilize Zampa effectively was to have bought him on early and complete his quota before 15th over which didn't happen. He came in late and there was a risk of giving him extra overs beyond that point since Yuvraj was hurting badly and was looking for an opportunity to launch into bowlers. Often we see when batsmen gets hurt he becomes doubly dangerous as he will try to smash a few and release the pressure of not able to run singles. Yuvraj was setting up for that kind of mood and bringing a spinner at that stage was risky and especially an inexperienced one like Zampa.

venkyind
on March 28, 2016, 4:39 GMT

Kohli undoubtedly the all time great in limited overs he is even better than Bradman would be in t20 avging more than 50 and I don't know what dhawan is doing in the team rahane should come in next game

NipunShrestha
on March 28, 2016, 4:33 GMT

I think India can bring another 10 players from Galli cricket and put virat in that team. That team will win as well.
I am not a fan of Virat but he looks the only one who know cricket.

ajaykol
on March 28, 2016, 4:32 GMT

With calls for replacing certain players like Dhawan, Raina growing by the day, doubt if the team management will change the winning combination from hereon.

BeAHuman
on March 28, 2016, 4:31 GMT

In Mumbai, India should pick another spinner and drop Dhawan. On a batting beauty India might not need so many batsmen...Harbajan can tonk the ball too. Raina could open with Rohit.

Wild4cricket
on March 28, 2016, 4:29 GMT

Liked Virat's innings very much. But did not like Virat Fan's attempt to disgrace other greats like ABD, SRT etc. Boundless pride causes downfall.

rkrish16
on March 28, 2016, 4:22 GMT

We are pleasantly surprised by many wishes from SL fans after this match. Keep it up boys, lets wish the cup remains in Asia..

RednWhiteArmy
on March 28, 2016, 4:20 GMT

Well done india but everyone must bow down to your superiors, England.

Wildprairyrose
on March 28, 2016, 4:15 GMT

Why everybody is saying Kohli is the best T20 batsman in the world. He is really brilliant in ODIs too... Lets don't forget his Test performances in Australia.

Naveen Kumar Ch
on March 28, 2016, 4:12 GMT

Green Pitch in Asia Cup - Performed under pressure, Rank Turner in Kolkata - Performed under pressure, Slowish tricky pitch in Mohali - Conquered the world....Hats off to the class and guts.

EverythingsEventual
on March 28, 2016, 4:11 GMT

I do not understand why Kohli needs to be compared to Sachin after every great innings. I personally think that Kohli is a master chaser whereas Sachin was an excellent "setter" of targets. If you think setting targets is easy then why isn't Kohli as good at it. And I am not even getting to the fact that Sachin has produced many good innings while chasing (Desert Storm, 2003 world cup against Pakistan, CB Series finals against Australia..) Is Kohli a better chaser? Definitely yes !! Is Kohli a better target setter? Definitely no !! Is Kohli a better ODI player? Who cares?? We should just rejoice having him in our team.

R.A.B
on March 28, 2016, 4:10 GMT

Smith failed to trust zampa even though he was bowling good. Remember he got the wicket of kohli in the last T20series.

Cricinfouser
on March 28, 2016, 4:05 GMT

it is not often that australia was subject to such special treat but kohli preserved his best for australia/shutting the lousy mouths of johnson and the flintoffs like/kohli does not need his certificate/maybe kohli will kick their Imperial mindset shortly

sidkkc
on March 28, 2016, 4:04 GMT

As a pakistani fan...virat take a bow man..i donot have wordings to describe what player you are....forget about being pakistani being indian or whaever..this guy is a champion player...its still a shock for most of the people how he took the game from that position where ind required 43 off 19...yesterday cricket and a true champion won..i dont wanna compare virat with sachin but i had seen enough of sachin's class but didnt get to see these innings..probably our time sachin...we would love to have 50 percent of virat's talent than 200 percent of afridi's madness!but pleasure to see this young champ doing so well again and again that hunger in him to do well for his country is commandable...respect from pakistan...cricinfo plz publish

Anil_Koshy
on March 28, 2016, 4:00 GMT

Still don't understand the logic behind Raina's position in the side, he plays only when everything is in his favour, he should be replaced by Negi in the semi finals.

The_Quicke
on March 28, 2016, 3:59 GMT

Smiths captaincy really seems to be reactive, chopping and changing each ball even early in the innings when a boundary was struck somewhere. And no confidence placed in poor Zampa, the kid would have at least been up for the challenge, Coulter-Nile isnt accurate enough for the later overs.

Probuddho Chakraborty
on March 28, 2016, 3:55 GMT

Bangladesh's harakiri just brought India to the semis. What a player Kohli.
West Indies on the other hand got bogged down by the Afghans and thus India has the momentum. 3 great wins for India and thus WI need Gayle to come all guns blazing at the very pitch where he scored a 100 against England.
Run fest waiting at the Wankhede.

Superprediction Predict
on March 28, 2016, 3:54 GMT

Congratulation Team Indai.He is really a Brave Batsman.Who know when to score & where to score.At this time team India with out Kohli is nothing.Now we just want one incredible performance from Yuraj Singh.Come On Yauraj you can do this.!

Tendulkardrives
on March 28, 2016, 3:45 GMT

virat, no words for you man, just take a bow. kohli as a batsman and a player is miles ahead of anyone in the team. this indian team is very fortunate to have him in the side. kohli is a one man army who conquers the battlefield.

mrgupta
on March 28, 2016, 3:45 GMT

Huge thanks to Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmadullah for their contribution in India reaching Semis...

Vaishak13
on March 28, 2016, 3:44 GMT

On a lighter note,as long as Khawaja was there,Aus were never gonna beat India in this one.I guess we know why:)

scooby_007
on March 28, 2016, 3:43 GMT

As a PK fan, have to say that I'm happy that another Asian team is still hanging on in the WC. With no international cricket in our country, our team seems to be eventually badly affected. The current Ind team has an excellent bunch of batters, despite what others say to ridicule them. But, Kohli does seem to be carrying them ATM. He was the main difference in todays match and the one against PK. Hope the others step up and support him to win the cup. In your face to those that said India will be the last Asian team to be chucked by Aus. Well done, neighbours. Onward bound.

Ain_EL_Sabet
on March 28, 2016, 3:36 GMT

Why aus captain did not use zampa at the end ?

secularn`happy
on March 28, 2016, 3:35 GMT

Excellent win by team INDIA. all the very best for the semis from a Sri Lankan fan

BPeter
on March 28, 2016, 3:31 GMT

I am extremely 'HAPPY' that 'INDIA WON' but upset at the way our 'TOP ORDER' batsmen are 'THROWING' away their wickets. Shikar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma and Raina time and time again you are given opportunities BUT not able to utilize them. Our selectors should 'TEACH' these 'NON PERFORMING' batsmen a lesson and throw them out. How many times do they expect Virat Kohli to bail the team out? This is at the moment 'A ONE MAN TEAM' with the backing of Captain Cool MSD and to some extent Yuvraj Singh. Top Order please wake up as things don't come easy every time, either you 'PERFORM' or you 'PERISH'. I hope someone conveys this to the 'TEAM MANAGEMENT' coz we need cricketers who are ever dependable like Kohli and not cricketers who perform in 1 out of 10 or 15 innings.

All the Best 'TEAM INDIA' go on and win the 'WORLD CUP'

Tinboy123
on March 28, 2016, 3:21 GMT

Very strange to see the decline of this opening pair. Just 3 years ago in the Champions Trophy they were putting up 100 run opening stands like its no big deal. What has happened Dhawan and Rohit?

arasanvalan
on March 28, 2016, 3:21 GMT

Best indian batting order would be 1.dhawan 2.Rohit 3.virat 4.yuvi 5.pandya 6.dhoni 7.raina 8.jadeja 9.ashwim 10.nehra 11.bhumra
Getting tired of seeing the current top 3 is a waliking wicket its time for a change in batting order. Raina is a great hitter by coming down at 6th or 7th over he needed to steady the ship that is not happening if he is coming at 15th or 16th over he may be a different batsman free to play some shots. MS pls consider this let raina come after u or yuvi according to the situation.

CricketPakistan
on March 28, 2016, 3:21 GMT

I firmly believe that Virat, in the present form, is a better batsman than the great Sachin. The only test for him is that for how long can he continues to play the way he is playing these days

GrtIndia_Ann
on March 28, 2016, 3:20 GMT

@neelabhsamvatsar: the last time either of these played in India, Aus got drubbed by 4-0 and SA got drubbed by 3-0..both of them are home tigers...at least Ind managed draws won few matches and came close in some in Aus and SA..where as both of them got drubbed in India...literally drubbed

Stephen Skinner
on March 28, 2016, 3:13 GMT

Whilst australia would love to win the wt20 they never stood a chance with it being held in India.

Kruns
on March 28, 2016, 3:11 GMT

wow kohli you beauty what a way to answer your critics ..... tremendous display of courage,will,talent,passion etc etc.... no doubt that he is curently the best in the world when it comes to limited overs cricket.... full marks for handling pressure and getting through .... i am big big big fan of srt but must say that if not better vk will be very close or will be at par with him. however unfortunate that others in the team are not performing... specially rohit he was in a super form coming into the tournament dont knoe whats going wrong i back the likes of him to come back in semis and finals (if india qualifies).....although yuvi has not played a single inngs of master class but his experience in the middle is imp the way he built a partnership with vk in the matches against pakistan and Aussies mUST say he has done a decent enough job.... C'mon india two more good games can bring home the cup....mr Mitchel johnson got the answer perfectly from vk i guess ..... master class and way to go....

hycIass
on March 28, 2016, 3:10 GMT

Isn't Kohli the greatest ever in the shorter format?! That final interview where Kohli acknowledged Yuvraj's effort was pure class and I agree. Khawaja's wicket was a key moment as he was batting very well and got us to 50 in 4 overs. Smith did well but Koli was too good. Faulkner is not the finisher anymore neither with bat or bowl

gdalvi
on March 28, 2016, 3:06 GMT

I really hope that India now makes the changes required to make it a 11 man team - kick out Dhawan and Raina - and bring in Rahane for Dhawan and possbily either Bhajji and Negi to strengthen the spin. Otherwise India could still end up loosing.

moscowman
on March 28, 2016, 3:06 GMT

What an innings of class and authority by Viraat Kohli. With the world's greatest fininsher Dhoni for company, they just blew the Aussies away. We felt that Kohli should have conveyed Yuvi to take time off to treat his leg so that Dhoni can come in earlier. But all is well that ends well.
Now the Juggernaut is rolling. Beat the WI and then the Black Caps in the final and bring the cup back.
Hats off to Dhoni and Viraat.
And buck up the openers/

Manik_mia
on March 28, 2016, 3:03 GMT

All AUS needed was 2 more overs from Zampa; game could have been their's. AUS does not get it. They want to win with pacers even in India.
Congrats Team IND. Keep the cup in SC.

rse1
on March 28, 2016, 3:01 GMT

Thank you India for eliminating Australia. None of the three non-Asian sides left in would want to meet Australia in semi finals or finals, because Australia knows how to handle non-Asian sides in competition and has too much strength in depth. All three of the non- Asian sides will however feel they have good chance against India especially after NZ and Bangladesh (nearly) showed them the way. At some point the cricketing gods will frown and Kohli's great innings last night will be balanced by a low score or two

DilumSL
on March 28, 2016, 3:00 GMT

Absolute brilliance. No words to to describe Virat the great. There are batsmen, Good batsman , great batsman and then there is Kohli who is beyond them all. Respect from a SL fan

Reza_bd
on March 28, 2016, 3:00 GMT

Hunger to win match for his country is the reason behind this man V.Kholi . He always want to win match

Flemo_Gilly
on March 28, 2016, 2:58 GMT

I know Faulkner got 5 wickets in the previous match, as Pakistan, a team where few of their players had probably played much against Faulkner, just kept hitting his slower balls straight up, but I still would have dropped him for this match against India. India showed in the 3 T20's in Australia that they were too familiar with Faulkner and had basically worked him out and as he came in bowling slower ball after slower ball in the final overs they just waited back and smashed him. And again the same happened here. Could easily see it coming. Also don't agree that warner batting at 3 was his demise, i am a big fan of warner but he was just out of form, last night khawaja and finch got us to 50 in 4 overs, what else do you want from your openers. Khawaja in particular was on fire smashing 26 off 12 balls so he did his job. Smith's lbw cost us and i hope we can bring the DRS into play. And on kohli he is simply the best T20 batsman in the history of the game.

mannybhai
on March 28, 2016, 2:55 GMT

As I have noticed Indian opening batsmen have totally failed in their last four outings. Can anyone please let Indian management know ,it's about time they let go of either Dhawan or Sharma and bring in Rahne. I really hate to see sorry faces of both these guys after getting out cheaply,otherwise they might loose to WI. I highly doubt that would happen cuz Dhoni likes to keep winning combination just for superstitious reasons.

Pragyaditya Barat
on March 28, 2016, 2:52 GMT

I have followed cricket for many many years and i don't think there has been anyone like Virat kohli ever before. It takes a lot of guts to play under pressure and keep performing so consistently time after time. Australia had won the toss, they had an excellent start and a pretty good finish but they were beaten by a genius today. Scoring 39 odd runs in 2.1 overs against experienced bowlers in a do or die situation in front of such huge crowd is unthinkable for legends and fans alike. Simply superb Virat.

av1234
on March 28, 2016, 2:51 GMT

Congratulations to Virat, Dhoni and Team INDIA for a marvelous win and what a scintillating one-men-rescue- squad performance from Virat ! Well done. All the best wishes and good luck for next match

Vivek Kumar
on March 28, 2016, 2:51 GMT

My heart says IND is the winner of this tournament. But my drama mind says ENG is the winner of this T20 Cup This time.

krishadi-cricket
on March 28, 2016, 2:50 GMT

Well done to both the teams. India did well to hold on to the nerves. Kohli has once again demonstrated that good conventional cricketing shots with the determination to take it to the deep end can create wins from seemingly improbable situations. Australia will get better from here on. Managing a team of explosive batsmen is an interesting challenge for Australia to overcome.

Jessie1122
on March 28, 2016, 2:49 GMT

Dhawan will keep playing till he finally scores a 50 in his 50th innings.

cjscanada
on March 28, 2016, 2:49 GMT

What a gentleman and player Shane has been, especially in T20. Feel bad this has to be his last game. He is admired in India for his character and smart plays. Very difficult bowler to get away. I cannot believe India won after being 3 down in the 8th over, in spite of having Kohli. I have never seen anyone perform so consistently, under pressure. Do not understand why people undermine or compare other cricketers of a different era. Shower your eloquence on Kohli but please do not degrade others. Remember Sachin played consistently for a long time, on spicy wickets, better quality bowlers. Today's pitches are more often than not, flat. Kohli is in the form of his life and ABD is off form. We respect ABD and hope he gets his form back as not only he is a dynamic cricketer, he is also a very versatile character, having excelled in several field's. I remember the way he plays his cricket, it feels there is no pressure at all. So let's enjoy our victory and players all over.

cricpanther
on March 28, 2016, 2:45 GMT

Hatts off and take a bow, Virat Kohli!! Superb inning he played for tricky run chase against Aus. This is the batting after so many years, viewers has witnessed which is certainly out of the world, priceless, top class, highest level inning!!! Not understanding how many times Rohit, Raina, Dhawan failed?? Why these three not learning and growing as a batsman?? are they just for fielding purpose through out this world cup? Each three need 30 odd runs in quick time, which also getting difficult for them then whats the need to continue them???? Every time MSD, Kohli, Youngsters can not save India, Step and focus on your batting, have extra practice, because West Indies match won't be easy and need entire team to be on top gear performance.

perth67
on March 28, 2016, 2:42 GMT

whilst disappointed to lose, not mastering the T20 format aint a devastation TBH for Aus cricket just more of a dent to Aust ego at trying to dominate of all formats........

though Aust lack of ability to play spin does worry though, been a problem for a while, will be interested to see how Aus go in Sri Lanka....success there will quickly extinguish another T20 disappointment......though they seem to be in a transition period with a few of their champs recently retired.

WolfmanJack
on March 28, 2016, 2:28 GMT

Well played India

Mohanapriya Asaithambi
on March 28, 2016, 2:28 GMT

well done India. good bowling and backed by good batting by kolhi Dhoni yuvraj. dhoni is very good in keeping things calm when aus batting. good capitancy by him in shuffling bowlers. why star sports commentators are behaving as though they want India to lose. very awful commentary by them.

espncricinfomobile
on March 28, 2016, 2:21 GMT

Well done Kohli, he is at the peak of his powers!! Sad ending for Watson, but he has won his fair share of world cups and many other tournaments. Amazing, Australia still has not won a T20 World Cup. It is a format they haven't mastered yet. I still remember the first game they played, it was the first ever T20 international, Australia

Mani Periasamy
on March 28, 2016, 2:19 GMT

Kholi is a god's gift to not only india but for cricket as well.

Vivek Kumar
on March 28, 2016, 2:16 GMT

Congrats to Indian Team. But the question is who will win the Final ? Here is the information. I think NZ is doing good so for and untroubled what so ever. WI is doing exceptionally well and lost against AFG. IND is not doing good where as Kholi and couple of bowlers performing on the match day. To all cricket / IND fans - do you think it is enough to win the cup, certainly yes if it is one man show again on another 2 matches. lets keep all these aside, ENG though its lost 1 match against WI, ENG is creating the history in the matches its played so for. I believe if ENG will create History in semi and final as well. 1. NZ Vs ENG = ENG, 2.IND VS WI = IND (Because final is in IND and ground needs to be crowded) and ENG lifting the cup this time. Lets see. Cric info - Please post.

nsaddam
on March 28, 2016, 2:11 GMT

Two mistake by Steve Smith
1. He should have instructed his players not to try taking Yuraj out to limit the runs
2. Steve should have let Zampa bowl the last overs

cluelessjan1
on March 28, 2016, 2:09 GMT

its india's to win the tournament. in 2014 india got beaten by sl. in 2012 didn't even qualify for semis. so all the best india keep the trophy in the sub continent. but need to sort out the weak batting at the top. too late to experiment hope at leasy one of the them will click.

R.A.B
on March 28, 2016, 2:08 GMT

India has got the worst opening pair of T 20 batsmen right now. Kohli saving the skins of both yuvraj and rains.

Manjeshgowda
on March 28, 2016, 2:02 GMT

I am really impressed with kohli and dhoni,'s running between the wickets. Its amazing to see convert singels into doubels every time kohli finds a way. Kohli we proud to be have u in the team

Cricinfouser
on March 28, 2016, 2:01 GMT

Agree JohnnyThomas, big mistake to underbowl Zampa then throw Coulter-Nile to the wolves at the end. NZ leaves out its two best quicks and dismantles everyone with spin, but Australia still doesn't get it.

ASHISH_RN
on March 28, 2016, 1:55 GMT

On a different note, I think Yuvraj got dismissed just when India needed that to happen.

MURALIVANKADARI
on March 28, 2016, 1:53 GMT

India broke the KOLKATA jinks against Pakinstan. Let India and New Zealand play finals and broke that jinks also.

neelabhsamvatsar
on March 28, 2016, 1:42 GMT

Team India is good only in t20. The real challenge is test cricket,where they get drubbed by Australia and South Africa.

manat6473
on March 28, 2016, 1:38 GMT

Yep, no comparisons of VK with SRT please. SRT played in a different era and must be respected for what he was and the joy he gave us. Let's sit back and enjoy Virat who's a legend in the making.

YesKayR
on March 28, 2016, 1:38 GMT

It required a special innings from Kohli to take India to SF. Perhaps the best T20 innings ever under pressure and considering the situation and that it was virtually a knock out match. Credit shud also go to bowlers for restricting Aus to 160 after they got off to a flyer. One stage it looked like we'll be chasing 200. Dhoni s instincts also paid off, especially asking yuvi to bowl for the first time in the tournament. Congrats to both teams for a well fought match. KOhli is special considering he rarely plays an ugly slog and almost all his shots are proper ckting ones. I don't see any change in the team for SF, unless and until Yuvi is not fit. Negi can step in considering that Mumbai pitch wud offer some assistance. Eng against all odds have performed so well and like india came back after losing the first match. exciting SFs in the offering and cant wait. I would predict a Eng India finals. Rest of India batting has to step up, if they have to b crowned champions. All the best.

manat6473
on March 28, 2016, 1:32 GMT

Due credit goes to Yuvi, who's past his prime, for hanging in and stitching a partnership of 40+ with Kohli helping India's cause. Without that stability acceleration at the death would have been difficult.

hasa555
on March 28, 2016, 1:26 GMT

Well played virath. He is mentally very strong. That is the main reason for his success. Combine with the techniques he has, india able to produce a champion cricketer that help to win matches regualry. Well played india. Congratulation for the Semis. From SL.

mvm
on March 28, 2016, 1:21 GMT

bye bye aus ,virat u r best in t20 and odi ,we need from others player to perform, wow what player

srikanthanethirraj
on March 28, 2016, 1:19 GMT

India is going to win the title. Kohli's innings will inspire every team player.

Worst#1SideEverIndia
on March 28, 2016, 1:16 GMT

Smith??? Zampa only 2 overs for 11 runs...history repeats

chitti_cricket
on March 28, 2016, 1:08 GMT

All said about Virat Kholi's beautiful performance, I would like to put the way Aussie's started the match and India restricted them to 160 in itself was a commendable job and momentum shift to India. Particularity the way Nehra, Jedeja and Yuvi bowled. I request all Indian fans from restraining to bash their own players (specifically Yuvi and Jadaja) with their great cricketing knowledge and instead back their team. If today Aussies posted a total of say around 180/190 it would have been an easy game for them. We fans have to be realistic and think with cricketing brain than just emotion. I think even this game was won by Indian bowlers than batsmen (apology in saying so in-spite of Kohli's innings). I think we should stop picking our own teams once a cricketing team is fielded. Coming to all 4 teams in Semis I think we have 3 old champions and one new one. I wish all 4 teams good luck though want India win the WC in my heart. Dhoni&Virat you both are true gift to cricket and India.

Willey40
on March 28, 2016, 1:05 GMT

Kohli played a master innings to secure semi-final birth for India. You could hardly find any fault, the shots on leg side and especially on square and cover was just brilliant. Two sixes on mid off boundary were just pure timing. Other than him the Indian team needs to improve their top order batting, hope they do it in the semi final. Indian bowling is not that weak as it seems to be, the pitch was playing good and yet they could restrict a team which posted 59 in power play overs. Mind you this team has the one longest and explosive batting line up. Top were four teams made it to semi finals. I ve read quite a few comments from member's of neighbourhood country who always write negative comments against India. They want just there team to beat India, thus is defeatist attitude, no wonder their team has shone more poorly against other teams. You should always look for a win and have respect for other teams. Afghanistan is other team which always play for a win, they beat Windies!!

samincolumbia
on March 28, 2016, 0:54 GMT

The most dejected fans will be the Lankans, Pakistanis, Banglas and then the aussies. The aussies have never won a T20 World Cup. India thrashes them every time in the World Cup T20.

samincolumbia
on March 28, 2016, 0:50 GMT

Kohli - What a player!! The BEST chaser EVER in the world! Ice cool and would have even chased down 300 against the over rated aussies.

Jasonsl
on March 28, 2016, 0:43 GMT

In T20 Format until the end you never know who's going to be at the final so dont make comments earlier. Example if Virat Kohli , Dhoni and Raina falls earlier and if Gayle plays really well India will lose. If Virat , Dhawan , Raina, Dhoni plays well then WI will lose.

NZ vs Eng is a tight match too.

But I guess it's a WI vs NZ game.

You_Beauty
on March 28, 2016, 0:42 GMT

First of all congratulations to India, Virat was truly unstoppable last night. Australian preparation was terrible for this tournament, and it came to fruition in this game. In the end I believe NZ and India were the stronger teams in this group and they deserve to play finals. I also wouldn't be surprised to see a NZ v India final.

LoungeChairCritic
on March 28, 2016, 0:38 GMT

I thought Australia were about 15 runs short in their innings. Nehra's wicket of Khawaja was critical. Smith copped a howler. If Oz were to beat India without Starc in Indian conditions we needed one of our top 6 to go berserk. When India needed 43 with 3 overs to go I thought we had a chance. Kohli & Dhoni were magnificent. Kohli's off drives behind point were a joy to watch. It is always easier to accept defeat when you have been beaten by the better side on the day.

Manik_mia
on March 28, 2016, 0:38 GMT

AUS made the mistake batting first. Virat is master chaser they should have known that. BD knew that and came close because of this.

xyzoom
on March 28, 2016, 0:38 GMT

@AUSSIENSW Austraya living up to their T20 Ranking of 5th so the result wasn't unexpected. The top 4 ranked teams make the semi-finals as it should be.

Never have been able to live up to their hype in T20 that's why they packing their bags and leaving the tournament before the finals. Smith ranked 94th a perfect example of that hype!

MartinJose
on March 28, 2016, 0:22 GMT

Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan seems to be playing a risk free game.Both seems to be saving their full potential for IPL.Atleast the team management should try Rahane in place of Dhawan to open and leave Dhawan out or send him to middle order in place of Yuvraj.Anyhow, Indian openers seems to be the weakest among 4 teams qualified for semifinals. Thanks to Kohli to bring Indiathis far..

shaykumar
on March 28, 2016, 0:20 GMT

Thank you Virat for being born in India and play for India and for all your hard work! What a star performer I have never seen a player like this! Hard luck australia. India we only survive because of Kohli and our bowlers.

ChandranSukumaran
on March 28, 2016, 0:19 GMT

Many children will be named Virat. That"s the testimonial.

WASHEMANAMADROOTA
on March 28, 2016, 0:17 GMT

AUSSIENSW sore loser much? Nz has been all class in this tournament. Your opinion is invalid

blahblah1234567
on March 28, 2016, 0:15 GMT

Bradman in tests, ABD in odis, kohli in t20s... best people in the formats

ASN786
on March 28, 2016, 0:11 GMT

Credit to team india... but how every cricket fan imagine india without virat??

David-Indian
on March 27, 2016, 23:46 GMT

Kohli's innings was well and truly the best innings I have seen in T20. Ice Cool. Wow. Having said that Sharma, Dhawan and Raina need to pick up their game and do it fast. Yuvraj was servicable. He is playing the Badri role in the team now. Which is good for these slow low tracks.

spinkingKK
on March 27, 2016, 23:45 GMT

Yuvraj Singh almost did it to India again. I couldn't understand why he wouldn't retire hurt in a tight run chase when you have a possessed guy batting at the other end and he badly needed a support to convert singles into twos and twos into threes. It was not as if there are not much batting left. Dhoni, Jadeja, Pandiya, Ashwin all can bat. He did contribute with the ball and also 21 runs with the bat. However, he almost failed India. If it wasn't for Kohli's exceptional read of the situation, India would have lost the match easily. I hope Yuvraj at least learned that the game needs to be played as a team game. This was the main reason why he failed India in the 2014 final. He was playing as if only he can win it for India.

SirBazza
on March 27, 2016, 23:41 GMT

@AussieNSW NZ had the class and match winners to out your mob away! At least we have a chance for glory where as Aussie are back to the drawing board. Have a nice day!

SirBazza
on March 27, 2016, 23:40 GMT

Great knock Kholi! Supurb! India will have new confidence to beat the Windies. Could be an India V NZ final? I hope so!

CowNZcorner
on March 27, 2016, 23:38 GMT

Kohli is the king of t20 at this time, and he loves playing Australia (Faulkner in particular). I think it will be an England or NZ versus India final unless Gayle has one of his magical innings, and India will more than likely win that final.

spinkingKK
on March 27, 2016, 23:38 GMT

I have watched Indian cricket team for a very long time. However, I have never seen a player like Kohli. The competition brings the best in him. He can match it with his flawless skill. The best batsman in the world at the moment. Steve Smith is very close second.

Rahul Srk
on March 27, 2016, 23:36 GMT

Dhoni did mention a point during post match talk. It is time for the "other" Indian batsmen(Rohit, Shikhar, Raina whom obviously Dhoni didn't take names) to lift their game up. That will take the pressure off kohli ! I don't think that these batsmen lack talent. It is their attitude ! If one these batsmen perform in one match they will be in that hangover for next few matches ! Slacking won't work in sports ! I have no clue why Dhoni is hesitating to make a single change atleast ! Swap one of them for Rahane. There won't be any impact of team's composition or balance atleast. Entire world now knows how to get Raina - Bowl 'em short ! These guys haven't even tried reverse sweeps or switch hits or any unconventional or innovative shorts either. Rohit will either play away from body and get an edge or tries to play over in-field resulting in catch ! I am not an expert but a common lay-man who knows cricket can see what he is doing !

basusri133b
on March 27, 2016, 23:33 GMT

Let Team India beware, lest Kohli's brilliance is undone by Dhawan, Rohit Sharma & Raina. We absolutely cannot afford to have so many passengers in the team. These three could very well cost us the championship title. Though Dhoni and the team management are always against making changes to the current playing eleven, they clearly have a problem on their hands.

anand_
on March 27, 2016, 23:28 GMT

It's high time that other batsmen in the top 4 put their hand up and ease the pressure on Kohli. Don't think there has ever been a better chaser than Kohli not even Tendulkar or a Bevan was this good.

romariolewis5
on March 27, 2016, 23:24 GMT

For along time I have been saying Kohli is the best batsmen in T20 cricket. As a West Indian I wish we had sunil narine for the match on Thursday. If we did then I would be confident of us winning as he has bamboozled all the indian batsmen in that team including. Saying that badree is almost as good and we must use him to get Kohli out quicky or it's advantage India. I'm also hoping fletcher is fit as he's just as important as Gayle in my opinion. Should be a cracking match as the players knows each others game inside out from ipl. May the best team win.

RoJayao
on March 27, 2016, 23:23 GMT

It's been quite a while since I've seen a team contrive to lose a match as obviously as Australia did this match! Whether intentionally, lazily or incompetently, this effort was as lame as they come. 50 or so after 4 overs, then they pull out the defensive shots and its dot ball after dot ball. How's that? Then on a pitch that had a bit for everyone, but against a team that has had a clear hold on our fast bowlers for some time, especially Kohli, it's not the spinners who get their full quota of overs, but it is, yep, the fast bowlers! Zampa, nearly Australia's bowler of the tournament, gets just two overs. How's that???! Still, an expected result. Australia are rubbish at T20, no question. But they sure did ensure that status remained didn't they?!

cooljack_143
on March 27, 2016, 23:23 GMT

Congratulations to Kohli & MSD ,Yuvi for bailing this team out. It was almost impossible task for outsiders ,but I had in my mind that if Kohli & MSD stuck together not out we can pull this for sure. Look at the pressure this young man has to face becoz of some mindless batting by openers . Ind openers are pathetic & need a kick in their butt for starting so slow and then simply giving away at the end. I believe Rahane deserves a chance in place of Nohit for once. Nehra & Bumrah what a come back . God bless the young Kohli for he plays his heart out for team india .

Mrudula Vedula
on March 27, 2016, 23:20 GMT

Aussie stealed the show for first 3 overs and India for last 3. But difference is chasing under pressure Indian player kohli did it in style.

stueyh1
on March 27, 2016, 23:20 GMT

Great game and great innings by Kohli, but also a great innings by Watson too. Unfortunately not enough to get Australia through, although as an England fan I am glad to see them out! Congratulations to Watto on a great career, you have always been a credit to your country and to the game of cricket. All the best for the future.

Alex Alleyne
on March 27, 2016, 23:18 GMT

You cannot have WARNER in the squad and bat him at 3. You cannot have a good leggie in ZAMPA and introduce him late and only give him 2 overs.

OmerPaki123
on March 27, 2016, 23:16 GMT

I don't see India winning this world cup like the way they are batting except for kohli off-course but one man can't win u every game the moment he gets out India gets in trouble like against NZ and BD.
Sharma,Dhawan,Raina are under performing at the moment Yuvi uses his experince well Dhoni is good but no one else.
AUS should never have batted first.

clean_game
on March 27, 2016, 23:16 GMT

So many people still saying this "Sachin had lesser players around him where as Kohli has better players around him". Can anyone explain me in which era these players played , Ganguly, Dravid, Shehwag, Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, Azaruddin and even Kapil Dev. We all remember how we celebrated that 100th 100 against BD when personal milestones comes ahead of team. Give me a break and let me watch those cricketers who plays for their country not for their personal records.

True_Cricket_Fann
on March 27, 2016, 22:54 GMT

Virat Kohli - what a batsman! Take my bow.

jayalan
on March 27, 2016, 22:48 GMT

As an Australian I must say well played India. In this fornat Kohli is a master. An innings of guile and excellent temperament. To the Australians, well played but just not enough today. Farewell Watto, well played today too mate.

scritty
on March 27, 2016, 22:47 GMT

India at home, with the massive resources they have (more than every other test playing side combined both in the game financially and I terms of those who play cricket in their country) This should be a walk over for them. And it looks like it will be. Full expect India to cruise to an easy win in the tournament. Only an inspired New Zealand might have beaten them, but with Bren Mac not playing even that seems a very remote possibility. I can't really understand why they have struggled at any stage at all in this tournament, they really should have walked this from day one. Such is their massive dual whammy of massive resources and home advantage.

injun-uncle
on March 27, 2016, 22:46 GMT

India cannot keep relying on Kohli and have the rest of the top 5 "sleeping on the job" and have Kohli doing all the hard work. In the WC in 2015 vs Australia at the SCG, India gave up the chase as soon as Kohli was out for 1 and were denied a place in the Final. The Aus target of 322 was reachable. In the first match here vs NZ, India again gave up when Kohli mis-hit his shot. It will be a crime if the same top-5 keep failing at critical times in major tournaments.

I stated before the tournament that dropping Warner to 1 or 2 down is a bad decision but the Aussies have a problem of plenty where they have only openers in good form . Finch and Warner to open with khawaja to follow and Watson as a finisher would have been ideal. Bad captaincy from Smith.

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 22:36 GMT

I just can't believe that Steven Smith under bowled Zampa, who was clearly among the best spinners in this World Cup. Incredible win by Indians but I guess NZ are still the favourites to win the Cup.

kjpdavid
on March 27, 2016, 22:31 GMT

Wow... what is left to be said? Virat Kohli, take a bow! Commiserations to Smithy and the boys. We were undone by a masterclass innings from undoubtedly the best short form batter currently playing. To make any comment as to our bowling - both execution and choices - at the backend of the innings would be to detract from Virat's impeccably paced innings that - yet again - is the difference between the teams. However, agree with Smithy's post-match comments that yet again we haven't been up to the mark in batting in the middle overs. I would also suggest that our seam bowlers need to fast track including yorkers in their repetoir. As Watto's last over in which he bowled 5 yorkers effectively clearly showed, the yorker remains the best delivery during the final overs. Lasith Malinga built an entire career around being able to land the yorker at will with changes in pace. Congratulations India and best of luck in the rest of the tournament.

wpbus13
on March 27, 2016, 22:28 GMT

The running between the wickets by Dhoni and Kholi was exemplary (text book)! Other teams should take notice, taking two off David Warner is unheard of. India is unstoppable now...can't see any team beating them from this point on.

SherjilIslam
on March 27, 2016, 22:26 GMT

I don't have words...I really don't have any apt adjective left to define what an innings Virat Kohli played today.
To be honest, this is one of the best cricket innings I have ever watched across all formats.
This left me emotionally drained.

Thank You so much Shane Watson for being such a great competitor across the years. I believe your bowling has always been quite underrated. You are certainly better than the likes of NCN, Hastings et al. Good luck for your future endeavours.

Excellent spell Nehraji. Your hardwork and fairytale comeback is surely gonna be an inspiration for many.

Well done MSD. Be humble and be nice the way you are ..and keep hitting those winning boundaries *_*

devirocks
on March 27, 2016, 22:25 GMT

@Kohli is Kohinoor of India...

cluelessjan1
on March 27, 2016, 22:20 GMT

pease don't harp on the fact the BD is 10th in the tournament. As coach hathurusinghe has put it they were so close but yet so far. BD you have the talent and you came to the finals in the asia cup. we could not even get there.

Raman Thiruvenkatachari
on March 27, 2016, 22:19 GMT

What a fantastic victory for India. Australia made 160 for 4 which was challenging. But Kohli made what looked impossible. While Sharma Dhavan Raina failed to rise to the occasion Kohli stood firmly and won the Match for India. His 82 from 51 balls was courageus when things were not looking good for India. Captain cool once again proved his worth and finished the match for India with a superb boundary hit of the first ball of 20th over. The team is just two matches away from winning championship.

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 22:19 GMT

As an Aussie congrats to India and especially Virat Kohli, he was just way to good today and unstoppable. All the best for the rest of tournament and hope to see some good contests.

BlackCapsBestintheWorld
on March 27, 2016, 22:17 GMT

Convincingly beating every team in our pool isnt enough to impress you? Ah whatever. Sit back and enjoy the Black Caps dominating England because they dont stand a chance against us. India will be hoping for a rematch against us so they can prove their worth. Lets hope for an India NZ final.

vpg87
on March 27, 2016, 22:15 GMT

To all those who said, India was out of the world cup after their first loss to nz...this win is for you.

Squarecut2Heaven
on March 27, 2016, 22:15 GMT

This World Cup has proved over and over again that cricket after all is a mental game. Virat's Bradmanesque aura while chasing and Shane Watson's impact performances after he let finally decided to let it all go, it is all in the mind, folks. Just as it is in life so is in cricket - ability is something that many have but taming the mind is what ultimately matters.

Kushal.Veerarathne
on March 27, 2016, 22:13 GMT

Dear SL/Bangladesh fans, please give credit when it is due. The truth is,
BD goes home finishing at 10th position.Sadly, Srilanka will finish at 8th or 9th
position depending on their losing margin against SA

vpg87
on March 27, 2016, 22:13 GMT

This win should be enough to silence all the critics of the Indian cricket team. Including our beloved neighbors who pray so dearly that India loses.

Sidd_visc
on March 27, 2016, 22:12 GMT

Rohit, Dhawan and Raina really need to step up! And to those doubting India, winning against Australia should have subdued all those feelings. India is going to easily win over West indies. WI are a very inconsistent team and it will show up in the Semi Final.

Pakistastic
on March 27, 2016, 22:06 GMT

Congratulations to India for a marvelous win and what a scintillating one-men-rescue- squad performance from Virat ! Weldone, you beauty. India has a chance to take home the trophy. All the best wishes and good luck from Pakistan.

Divinetouch
on March 27, 2016, 22:00 GMT

Steve Smith should be punished for showing dissent when he was caught by Dhoni off Yuvraj. His dirty reaction is unbefitting of a captain of an international team.

I expect the umpires to report hm.

Aussie_Ado
on March 27, 2016, 21:57 GMT

Well played India. Australia never fail to dissapoint in T20Is. Poor team selection and poor captaincy cost Australia. Zampas figures were amazing, but he was not given the opportunity to bowl all his overs. Steven Smith has very poor T20 stats, he shouldn't be in the team, Warner should have opened and Khawaja should be No. 3. Lessons are not being learned by Australia. The future does not look good.

suli7
on March 27, 2016, 21:54 GMT

Many people including neutral fans are going overboard in praising kohli. Yes he has play magnificent innings here and has won the match for his team but to say that he is worlds best batsman at the moment is huge injustice to the root, Williamson & the smith of the world who in the last 1.5-2 years has left the kohli way behind in real cricket I.e test cricket. Yes he is ahead in limited overs cricket & one of the greatest chaser of target of all time but just on the basis of performance in short formats you can't say someone the best batsman in the world the tag which the batsman who performs equally well in both tests & short formats desrvere. Maybe in coming years kohli will leap ahead of them in test cricket also but at present I don't think that it is right to call him best or great just on the basis of his match winning ability in shorter formats. B.t.w I am an Indian

sociopath
on March 27, 2016, 21:40 GMT

Hats off Kohli. He is a true hero.

Brittorrent
on March 27, 2016, 21:38 GMT

well done India ..just goes to show you don't need to have a strong batting line up to get through to semis.
India will be the team scoring lowest number of runs (505) in the competition , assuming Sri lanka get more than 67 in their last match.

Monideep Ghosh
on March 27, 2016, 21:36 GMT

Anyone else sense a Rohit Sharma special vs West Indies?

Topgun10
on March 27, 2016, 21:32 GMT

Sharma, Dhawan & Raina have been so inconsistent - its glaringly obvious. India cant always rely on star Kohli - I hope the selectors know that. Rahane deserves a chance, at least he cant be worse than these 3... IMHO.

Chris_P
on March 27, 2016, 21:31 GMT

Although I didn't see the game, Kholi showed his masterclass effort to bring on the victory, something he has done plenty of times, especially in this format against us! Well played to him & his team, too good for us on the day & good luck in the final series. And good wishes to Watto on his International retirement, in this form of the game he did stand tall.

khandakh313
on March 27, 2016, 21:25 GMT

Call him a wizard or call him a man from a different Planet, he truly is magnificent to watch. 80% of his shots were played as if he is playing a test match, a nudge here, a flick there, a push here and a punch there. When he needed to come out of the crease and smack the ball even than there was no rage and he hardly bludgeoned the ball. That is truly the Hallmark of an unbelievable player. I personally feel that he is greater than Sachin when it comes to chasing score like this and a situation like this, I mean on 3 occasions in this World Cup India lost 3 quick wickets and Kohli was there till the end to finish the game. I believe the word FINISHER for him is an understatement. He is more than that. Some batsmen finish the game by hitting out and slogging but this man is a superlative genius. You just cannot describe his game. All I can say is that he has this INSTANT DESIRE TO WIN ATTITUDE, and he finds ways to achieve that with flying colors. Simply magnificent. WELL DONE INDIA

Bigbanger666
on March 27, 2016, 21:22 GMT

@ATHOL. Agree with your comment regarding Smith and his spinners. Like him as captain in the other formats but he seems to be struggling to get it together in this format. Zampa has been a stand out bowler this tournament and clearly Aus best and most effective bowler. Smiths lack of confidence in him is a real concern. Aus lack of form is no real surprise given the chopping and changing over the past few months. Very very strange selections over the journey. Not enough players in form with bat and ball.

Brittorrent
on March 27, 2016, 21:22 GMT

Poor death bowling by Aussies.
Should have defended 47 off last 4 overs
England and NZ are far better teams under pressure.

espncricinfomobile
on March 27, 2016, 21:20 GMT

Steve Smiths decision a SHOCKER
No comment on that one
Get real it destroyed the game

WhyGodWhenCricket
on March 27, 2016, 21:19 GMT

While Kohli was AWESOME, I'd also like to commend Yuvraj/Dhoni's batting, and all of the bowlers. After all, these are team efforts. Individuals shine through when they are supported. And Dhoni has always exemplified this.
However, NoHit/ Shaker/ SuSuResh definitely need to evaluate their batting performances. Yes, NoHit/ Shaker field very well; SuSuResh fields/ bowls adequately. Batting? Pretty trashy for all of them, to say THE LEAST.

But the kudos for today's win go to all of the bowler, KOHLI, Yuvraj, Dhoni, and Dhoni's crafty captaincy. Hats off!

VenSuresh
on March 27, 2016, 21:16 GMT

Great performance by dependable Kohli and a good bowling come back after leaking 59 runs in 5 overs. How long as a team will we suffer the inclusion of Dhawan/Rohit Sharma? Both should be out. Yuvi still performs with an odd wicket here and there. If India has to reach the finals we need to bring Rahane at the least. All the best team India for next match against the Windies.

Topgun10
on March 27, 2016, 21:13 GMT

How long will India continue to believe in lucky wins? I get it, so Kohli has to win them each and every game, that too in dramatic fashion - what are the other 5 batsman there to do? Why not replace Raina and Nehra - there seems to be no lack of talent in the ranks? Just a lack of will on the selectors.

cric_hero
on March 27, 2016, 21:11 GMT

Bad captency from Smith. Didnt put any oressure on Kohli when he came on strike

PaddyRasta2
on March 27, 2016, 21:09 GMT

Confusing why Australia's spinners did not bowl their full quota to restrict India in the middle overs? West Indies won't make the same mistake.

write2sankar
on March 27, 2016, 21:08 GMT

All those people (especially BD fans) commenting India got lucky, remember everyone is lucky.... 1 in a million sperms fertilize :) Stop ruing and enjoy cricket!

BlackCapsBestintheWorld
on March 27, 2016, 21:06 GMT

Outstanding batting by the best t20 batsman in the world. Really fantastic stuff. I thought India were gone when they were left limping (no pun intended) at 58-3. Great victory but India also has things to worry about. Raina Dhawan Nohit showed us how overrated they really are. None of them have done anything special this tournament. India batting lineup = Kohli + Dhoni.

Sid-LDN
on March 27, 2016, 21:05 GMT

It was a masterclass from kohli. But Smith somewhat helped with his poor bowling change. He ignored Zampa who was their best bowler in this wt20 and even in this match too. This was incomprehensible.

Raghu Panjala
on March 27, 2016, 21:05 GMT

My earnest request to all Fans. Dont compare Players, dont belittle Teams and players. Even if some one belittles someones hero, dont give it back. Take it easy.
Love ABD and Kohli,both. Kohli still has to prove in tests.If You look at averages, its Amla and ABD who are great and top in ODI's and Tests. Hope Kohli reaches that.
But India's nemesis are its bowlers. Hope we will find some great bowlers too. Then IND will be unbeatable.
When we get defeated,white washed by ENG,AUS in Away Test matches, I consider that as MOre bigger insult than a win of T20 WC.
Thanks Dhoni gave captaincy to Kohli who is better captain in Tests. He knows how to use his players well and he is Very Attacking in execution of plans.

Provost
on March 27, 2016, 21:04 GMT

Why did Watson catch Yuvi who was limping? should have dropped that one.....

Well Played Kohli! You made your billions of fans proud. Really the best innings. You turned the impossible into possible by quite timing.
Good to see Dhawan showing some intent but he got out. Dear Raina, dont try to hit every rising ball, accept it, respect it, leave it.

Good luck to Watson upon retirement.

DaveOTasmania
on March 27, 2016, 20:55 GMT

Australia still not quite getting the T20 thing. Ironic that Shane Watsons last international series they once again couldn't resist trying to make him into a number 6 instead of opening. They should have had these decisions made before the tournament and stuck with them.

Warner the big underperformer, but is that a surprise? As other commentators have mentioned, he didn't even play in the BBL. Aaron Finch the #1 player in the world (surely behind Kohli?) only playing the last two matches?

Hard to tell who's responsible for what sometimes, but clearly Smith was responsible for Watson batting at 6 and Adam Zampa's criminal under use.

A shame they can't quite figure it out, every player except Warner had one good knock, but no real standouts.

Topgun10
on March 27, 2016, 20:54 GMT

How long will India continue to believe in lucky wins? I get it, so Kohli has to win them each and every game, that too in dramatic fashion - what are the other 5 batsman there to do? Why not replace Raina and Nehra - there seems to be no lack of talent in the ranks? Just a lack of will on the selectors.

vkumar_086
on March 27, 2016, 20:49 GMT

How many chances have given to Dhawan, he just throws his wicket all the time...Rohit also repeatedly getting out for rash shots...our openers has to click in next games, how many times Kohli should bail out them...Yuvi played crucial knock of 21 on one leg...Nehra bowled very well after conceding four from the very first ball (later gave only 16 from 23 balls), his spell halted the damage in power play...our bowling has improved a lot in last one year...Aus were 60/1 in 6 overs, it was the great effort from our bowlers to limit this power packed batting lineup to 160...Pandya also should think about other deliveries except bowling short stuff...good luck for Semi final...hope BD fans will meet us in this forum after India's win

crrkiran
on March 27, 2016, 20:44 GMT

People say India qualified for semi finals, I say India kohlified for the semi finals

Mervo
on March 27, 2016, 20:43 GMT

I am not sure what all the surprise is. This was always going to be the result. On a pitch designed to make Australia's pace bowlers easy pray for anyone with a bat, it was entirely predictable. Imagine the riots otherwise. Well played India. India may struggle in the longer formats of the game but this shortest form is their best really. Australia will have learned a few things as well. As NZ have shown here, quality fast bowlers are not part of this game in India, but average, and at times almost unknown spinners certainly are.

Mervo
on March 27, 2016, 20:43 GMT

I am not sure what all the surprise is. This was always going to be the result. On a pitch designed to make Australia's pace bowlers easy pray for anyone with a bat, it was entirely predictable. Imagine the riots otherwise. Well played India. India may struggle in the longer formats of the game but this shortest form is their best really. Australia will have learned a few things as well. As NZ have shown here, quality fast bowlers are not part of this game in India, but average, and at times almost unknown spinners certainly are.

CricLoverBD2016
on March 27, 2016, 20:40 GMT

It's 2.30 am here in Dhaka now. We are a garments manufacturing company & exporter. I had to work hard today, feeling tired & sleepy. Though I have watched the full match live on TV, still I'm waiting & searching in youtube to get a video of Kohli's Innings of this match. Feeling like if I don't watch this masterclass innings at least once again today, I can't sleep well. What an innings that was, just out of the world!!!
I will really love to see Kohli giving some tips to BD batters about how to handle pressure, how to take the full responsibility, how to show calmness, how to apply grammar, how to make runs with an impressive strike rate, how to continue impressive strike rate even with classics!!! Love you sooooo muuuuch Mr. Perfect Cricketer Virat Kohli.

Antriksh Taliwal
on March 27, 2016, 20:40 GMT

Since the start of India's T20 season in 2016-right from Australia to the current T20 WC, our bowling, which was bleeding runs like anything before, have managed to keep the opposition restricted to below 150 in the last 15 matches, except for 2 matches (both against Australia, including today's match)...such has been the impact of inclusion of Ashish Nehra and Jasprit Bumrah as our frontline bowlers....especially Nehra, who has stood by his reputation of being a wicket taker magnificently... and his contribution in guiding the younger bowlers under pressure situations can be considered nothing short of invaluable... he still looks like Nehra of 2003 era, running in like a horse and bowling with pace and swing... he has really scripted an unbelievably memorable comeback, esp when most of his peers of his playing days have got retired from the game....
‪#‎Hats_off_Nehraji‬

Nitin Nayal
on March 27, 2016, 20:37 GMT

thank god India didnt top the group, otherwise we would then had to play in that awful ugly delhi ground

iitwale
on March 27, 2016, 20:36 GMT

so the winner of tournament to be decided at wankhede in a couple of days, whoever wins out of WI and India goes on to win the cup. Cricket knowing folk would agree with me

Midonoff
on March 27, 2016, 20:36 GMT

Congrats to India for reaching the semi but beware of the WI. A Gayle storm may arrive at India's peril. India be ready. But Gayle is not the only one who can be destructive

MANEESHROYwinner
on March 27, 2016, 20:35 GMT

Lot many people on this forum said before match to include Harbhajan in place of Nehra. It was a treat to watch the way Nehra swung ball in first over. If Harbhajan is to be given a chance, it has to be in place of Dhawan or Sharma or Raina. If India can reach semi-final without any significant contribution from these three players, then they can certainly move forward with one less batsman. Like WC2015 Indian bowlers are giving their best while batting is just centred around V.Kohli. Remember India has entered semi-final with negative net run rate, which means that batsmen are not scoring enough. What happens when V.Kohli is dis-missed early ? Can Pandya, Jadeja, Ashwin propel Indian victory ? We all know that Harbhajan or Negi can throw bat when required and their inclusion could be lenitive for Indian team. Although all this chopping and changing is not likely to happen because of so called "winning combination".

itsthewayuplay
on March 27, 2016, 20:34 GMT

Cometh the hour, cometh the man. A lot of reaction to another Kohli special and rightly so, this knock was the stuff of childhood dreams. Must-win game to reach the knock-outs and coming in with the opponents favourite to win, batting with the skipper and last of the recognised batters. Unbelievable stuff to single-handedly win the game and India now officially a one-man team in the short formats. Feel sorry for Kohli who deserves to be in the semis but not the team collectively.

MANEESHROYwinner
on March 27, 2016, 20:29 GMT

The moment Indian bowlers restricted AUS to less than 170, the match tilted in India's favour. Had U.Khawaja continued for ten overs or Maxwell allowed to open hands, the situation could have been different. Why Zampa was not allowed his full overs ? Out of twelve balls he bowled six were dot balls. David Warner is very unlucky in new batting positions. For India,V.Kohli's played superb inside-out shots through covers. Lollapalooza V.Kohli is in great batting form and is very consistent. He still is a bit hesitant in playing lofted shots. Luckily situation in end didn't required last ball heroics from Ranchi Rhino and he played a subtle knock. V.Kohli's early exit against NZ was the reason that Indian batting slashed like pack of cards. Indian batsmen are unable to negotiate power-play in their favour and Dhawan, Sharma, Raina are definitely a reason of worry. These three players have to lift their game. For the moment, All is well that ends well.

The_versatile_veteran
on March 27, 2016, 20:29 GMT

Continued... (comment by David warner during one day series in Australia, this year beginning to his team-mates ) something like "give respect to the size of the Australian grounds and to show off their big shots in India during WT20." Not happened quite in the same way like David Warner advised.

lucky666
on March 27, 2016, 20:27 GMT

Virat was so obsessed in chasing that he only knew there are 11 players with green colour clothes in the ground and he mistook them as Pakistan & rest is the story. Take a bow MASTERCLASS VIRAT!

Kushal.Veerarathne
on March 27, 2016, 20:22 GMT

Lesson to SL team ... even this Indian team is in transition ... they have lost
Sachin, Dravid, Laxman, Zaheer, Sehwag, Gambhir in last 3 or 4 years but
still they dont complain about 'transition' etc and instead have won 11 out their last 13 T20 games. The mere fact that players like Rahane, Harbhajan are not finding
place in their team tells the comparable sorry state of our team who have just very
limited talents.

AaleeKan
on March 27, 2016, 20:22 GMT

Khawaja had a good T20 WC but could not get star power Australia through the group stage and out of their Pool. In the next T20 WC in 2020,with lessons learnt, the Australian squad should make it to the Semi's. Perhaps its time for a few Australian players to go and experience the Georgie Pie Super Smash T20 in NZ.

Asian_King_warrior
on March 27, 2016, 20:21 GMT

As indian fan,i always jealous we couldn't produce any threatening pace bowler..while Pak,resently BD also, raw afghan bowler... what the hell they do to produce those 150 pace..if somehow we can get bowler who touch (145-150) we will be lucky.. yadav has pace but his length is dam poor... as virat is test captain he must be fulfilled is ind manage to do it...I don't see bumrah,pandya in our test side, so we need to find young guy for test as well...virat is genius and hope he will get no.1 test ranking in future..god bless him for his all hard work..

AussieNSW
on March 27, 2016, 20:20 GMT

Well played India. No excuses from us I can see you going on to win it from here. T20 seems to be your best format for sure. India v England final? Neither NZ or England have the class or the match winners to go on with the job IMO.

blahblah1234567
on March 27, 2016, 20:18 GMT

can people stop talking bad about ab de Villiers just because kohl played a unreal inning. what if you were is a team with the mindset of SA, not winning a world cup yet and they feel humungous pressure, yes AB should've stepped up when he was needed but that doesn't mean that you would compare both of them... they are different batsmen, AB is very versatile performs in tests and odis but if he was born in India I'm sure that he would've performed better knowing that his team has a few icc trophies. kohl is an amazing talent and he performs for his country when needed but the SA team has been nurtured under a complete different environment.

Nitin Nayal
on March 27, 2016, 20:17 GMT

Behind this Kohli bltiz we need to talk about our free loaders as well. Whats wrong with Pandya in balling only short deliveries. The minute he pitches up he goes for four. Raina again getting out to short balls. Cant even remember last Dhawan-Kohli partnership. For the time being current Indian team is all about Kohli, captainship and ballers. I hope that should be enough. The reason Dhoni has them is because they are good fielders and have attitude which Rahane (he is in wrong format) clearly lacks. We dont need Harbhajan when we already have Ashwin and part timers. The only replacement I can think of is Pandey but he is not in squad, so we need to settle with this current 11 for this tournament. Go boys #BleedBlue

Aseem Verma
on March 27, 2016, 20:17 GMT

Kohli and Dhoni are the pressure cookers of Indian Cricket who know how to come out with a delicious result under pressure :-P

kar_k
on March 27, 2016, 20:17 GMT

i think comparing Kohli with Sachin is non-sense. Hugh respect to Both of them... slightly more or so for Sachin (played consistent over longer period and longer format and against lethal bowlers ( Wasim, Macgrath, Shohaib, Murali, Warne to name some).

Kohli - king of T20. & match winner for one days.
Sachin played mostly 50 over games / test crickets.

Playing 50 overs need vastly different strategies than 20 overs... T20 needs vision to play 2-3 good overs (4s 6s), and rest with discipline; Imagine scenario if same was 50 over format and had Dhoni fallen in next over or so... With all great hittings from Kohli - total India score for 50 over format might not have been sufficient for win... on other end batsmen would just get out quickly.
I think comparing Sachin, Kohli - useless; Most guys comparing here, may not have seen Sachin in his prime, but in his 30s
also hugh respect for Yuvraj.. most gritty finisher in his times; remember Jadeja / Yuvi hitting in final 4 overs of WCs

Cric_101
on March 27, 2016, 20:16 GMT

@NP_NY, I would never disrespect ABD.. I just said that he is a lesser mortal than Kohli atleast in the shorter formats.. Plz don't compare IPL matches with international knockout matches.. We all saw how ABD performed in that pressure cooker match against WI the other day which virtually led to SA being out of the tournament.

YogifromNY
on March 27, 2016, 20:14 GMT

What does Dhawan have to do before being dropped for non-performance? Always useless, he is a huge liability for the team. If the rope that has been given to him were to be laid out end to end, it would surely circle around the earth and back! MSD - get Rahane in for this useless Dhawan for the semi final!!! Kohli won't compensate for your entire top order all the time, you know!!!

Haz66
on March 27, 2016, 20:13 GMT

Congratulations to India, but I hope that the Australian selectors take some responsibility for another dismal WT20. At the end of the day, David Warner is an opener, and he and Finch should have opened from the outset of the tournament, with Usman at 3 and Smith at 4. NCT was always a risk in Indian conditions, and not playing AJ Tye simply makes no sense at all. And, at the risk of being controversial, elevating Steve Smith to T20 Captain was a mistake. Smith doubtless has the ability to captain T20 cricket, but he doesn't have the experience, and I think that Australia would have been better with a stable side, with Finch as captain.

sabb786
on March 27, 2016, 20:13 GMT

Australia failed to defence kohli's shots in last three overs after faulkner came from off the field. Faulkner went off the feild b4 last three overs was a key to win india.

sagart
on March 27, 2016, 20:10 GMT

Well Done India.. it was tough target but thanks to Virat Kohli Again well Dhavan n Sharma Needs to start playing better innings

binaryjson
on March 27, 2016, 20:10 GMT

@NP_NY @CRIC_101: Agree, no doubt ABD is one of the great batsmen in the world. He is a phenomenal cricketer.

The_versatile_veteran
on March 27, 2016, 20:02 GMT

Indian bowling in this WT20 tournament has been really good if not great. Aussies scored 50 runs in the first 5 overs and Indian bowlers tied Aussies to 160 at the end of 20 overs. A batting line up with Warner, Watson, Maxwell, Smith, Watson and Kawaja were not allowed to go berserk. This indeed is a great effort by a relatively young bowling unit leaded by an old war horse Ashish Nehra. If anyone can remember the comments by David Warner down under during the limited over series in the beginn

lakshman_4cricinfo
on March 27, 2016, 20:02 GMT

Great win and clinical performance by Kholi !!! OMG Champion of chaser Kholi...he's too good in chasing what a cheerful chaser!!!,On other end Rohit, Dhawan & Raina was worrying and making too much relying on Kholi. Australia were superb in first 5 overs of the match. -_- After their batting faltered. Indians bowled well and restricted them to 160 :-) S Whatson What player he is good with batting and bowling at this age. Plz Stop comparing Sachin with Kohli. Different generation,Different bowlers, though he is a better chaser than Sachin.but Kohli still has better players around him, whilst Sachin had lesser players around him!!!

Kushal.Veerarathne
on March 27, 2016, 20:02 GMT

During the 3 match T20 series in Aus in Jan-Feb, Faulkner was sledging
Kohli for which Kohli replied that he has hit Faulkner many times in his life ...

But today was the best answer that can be given to a mediocre but big mouth player

vkumar_086
on March 27, 2016, 19:59 GMT

@CRICLOVERBD2016....Thank you friend for sensible comments...I want to support your team when it is playing against other teams except India, but SOME fan's comments about India making me to think twice...again thank you very much for your appreciation of India & our fellow Indian fans

NP_NY
on March 27, 2016, 19:55 GMT

@CRIC_101: ABD has hit 25 odd runs in the penultimate over when chasing in Bangalore....against Dale Steyn....twice. I've seen the RCB captain Kohli watch in amazement and declare there is no other batsman like ABD. So there is no reason to disrespect one genius while praising the other. We're just lucky we get to watch these two in action.

vinni88
on March 27, 2016, 19:54 GMT

People who say Yuvraj should be dropped doesn't know anything about Cricket. Yuvi played a supporting inning which helped Kohli to play freely. Opening pair of Dhawan

doctor1
on March 27, 2016, 19:53 GMT

Wrist, timing, confidence as high as Everest, and impeccable placement, Virat Kohli gave us a masterclass that will long be remembered.

order-in-chaos
on March 27, 2016, 19:52 GMT

virat is much better than tendulkar. tendulkar used to crumble under pressure And was poor in run chases. best part about virat is that he comes back not out without leaving it for anyone else

Kanthi Kumar
on March 27, 2016, 19:51 GMT

@ALLFORCRICKET take it easy man. We don't mind winning WC with a bit of luck.

howtoplaycricket
on March 27, 2016, 19:50 GMT

i have been following cricinfo comments for long time..finally i made an account for myself today.Good to see India win after some dismal performance in group stage.Also sad that teams like South Africa n Australia are out.As a neutral fan i would love to see New Zealand win though India are clear favorites.Kohli was good to watch.West Indies doesnt even deserve to play semi final cause they arent consistent.England cant play under pressure.Even if they manage ti win over New zealand..i Dont see them winning.Good luck New Zealand.U guys deserve this trophy more than anything.But India is a team to beat as they can easily wipe off poor West indies which didnt deserve a place in semi final.Semifinal would have been awesome with India,australia,south Africa n New Zealand.

lucky666
on March 27, 2016, 19:46 GMT

What Australia failed to know that India will finish anything today; because this is MARCH ENDING.

Cric_101
on March 27, 2016, 19:44 GMT

And Ladies and Gentlemen, that's the difference between Virat Kohli and AB DeVilliers !!!!

naym990
on March 27, 2016, 19:44 GMT

kohli the great before he retires his record in t20 will b incredible

JRP100
on March 27, 2016, 19:43 GMT

Can't pull this off again surely. Rohit and Dhawan have been bailed out for the last time I'd say, either they step up or India are out. Raina too got out to a nothing delivery, he didn't have to touch that and yet his failures will go unpunished. Here's hoping India find replacements for the next world t20, I'm backing Shreyas Iyer and manish pandey.

Mughalai
on March 27, 2016, 19:42 GMT

Despite this great innings from Virat, Indian chances of winning the cup are still shaky. Rest of the Batting is not clicking, Bhumrah has lost his beginner's charm. All it takes is a Kohli failure and a powerful batting performance from the opposition. There are better settled sides - my money is on NZ. Both WI and ENG are still chancey.

Naresh28
on March 27, 2016, 19:41 GMT

Well done to Kohli and India!!! Nice game to win. Your confidence is high but still feel
that Rohit ,Raina and Dhawan have been poor. Kohli has been playing well and Yuvi/dhoni have backed him well. Two games to go and the whole Indian team needs to back the GOOD BOWLER work. Batsman need to awake from their slumber
apart from Virat.

lucky666
on March 27, 2016, 19:41 GMT

"Other batsmen now need to step up, says cautious Dhoni"; how about BCCI decide remuneration structure purely on performance basis...Raina, Sharma & Dhawan are flat track kings and they are kids in front of master class Rahane, who is technically complete & fit player that those three & sharma in particular.

The_versatile_veteran
on March 27, 2016, 19:40 GMT

It is time to give are-visit on Bangladesh's test status. Today most of the cricketing fraternity was impressed by the passion and spirit of the Afghanistan players. With so many problems in their home land and limited opportunities, they got they did well to win against a strong WI To unit except Gate storm.

CricLoverBD2016
on March 27, 2016, 19:39 GMT

The extra ordinary man Virat is performing almost in every matches. Rohit/Dhawan/Raina can say, "We are willingly playing bad to test Mr. Kohli, we wanna see how much pressure he can handle"!! From now, I will always pray for the failure of Indian top order except Virat Kohli, it's because I will always love to watch this man playing extra ordinary cricket.

Some fans are saying that Kohli is better than Sachin. I'm requesting those fans, please show some respect to the real legend of cricket. I should add, on his (SRT) day of retirement, so many legends from other sports twitted about him. Roger Federar (one of the legends of Tennis) said that SRT is the idle of all sportsman. SRT hasn't bear the flag of India only, he has bear the flag of cricket also. So pls pls & pls show the respect that really he deserve.

sarangsrk
on March 27, 2016, 19:39 GMT

My goodness! What a chase AGAIN by VK. Nothing feels better than knocking Australia out of a World tournament and India has done that to Aus more than any other team. By now, after the number of thrashings Kohli has given to Australia, Aussie posters here would have learnt to spell his surname correctly but they still do spell it as "Kholi". LOL. Whaddaplaya. He is truely the number 1 batter in the world unlike ABD who only prevails on perfect flat track when not under pressure. Root and Williamson are genuinely supremely talented batters with right technique but they haven't won enough games in Limited Over Int. Then there are some with pseudo ranking 1 who simply can't play even little bit of spin. That is after all these years of playing in IPL and mind you, pitches in IPL do turn a lot given that IPL is played in peak of Indian summer. To say Kohli's innings was world class is just an understatement. India's problems don't subside though. WI would be tough to beat with only Kohli.

crrkiran
on March 27, 2016, 19:38 GMT

Its Indias world cup to loose now. Although new zealand beat India on a nagpur rage turner,they wont beat India twice in a tournament. India have to play very poorly in either of the next 2 games to loose this world cup.

dprasath
on March 27, 2016, 19:37 GMT

Great stuff. Once again Kholi took India to the Semi final. Indian bowlers done a great job especially Nehra bowled brilliantly (I said before the match he will be trashed). The real problem for India is Nohit, Dhawan and Raina, I just can't believe why Dhoni is still backing them. These 3 can only score on feather beds, the pitches Indians played other than the match against New Zealand were not mine field all the batsmen had to do was apply brains and play as per situations . When the first 3 wickets fell as usual like Domino's effect. Kholi and Yuvi played sensible cricket, used their brains by rotating strikes, maintained a descent run rate when things were not going well to keep up the momentum going. When Yuvi was out, Kholi knew that it was time for India to accelerate and played a stunning innings. Cricket is a team game, but India is playing with just 8 players, which will back fire in semi finals. It is time for Dhoni to say good bye to Nohit, Dhawan and Raina.

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 19:35 GMT

Did Smith make a critical error in bowling only four overs of spin? Amazing lack of discussion about this.

Giri Sankar
on March 27, 2016, 19:31 GMT

@NOORI So you want to remove a player like Yuvi who made 60 runs partnership with Kohli against Pak and 45 runs partnership with the same Kohli again against Aus at crucial times. Also he took an important wicket of Smith by just giving away 19 runs in three overs of his bowling. Agree that others are a bit out of form and probably Dhawan can be replaced by Rahane but Yuvi should continue to play. Keep in mind that only Kohli, MSD and Yuvi are contributing with the bat.

sweet2hrme
on March 27, 2016, 19:30 GMT

One of best t20 innings of Kholi. Really he is a World best batsman right now no one is near to him. A inning played under supreme pressure. A pure class. But Still i feel for Rohit, Dhawn & Raina ... How they are playing?? They are openers & playing in a such a manner like they dont know anything.... I hope they will play with more aggresive nature just from the starting. No point of waisting too many dot balls in power play than throw their wickets. India is lucky 2 times but the thrice if they do the same mistakes. Overall India win happy but special thanks to Superman Virat. But feel bad for Watson I can't see him now on a international level but he is a true all rounder. All the best for him for the rest of future... We Indian people love you..

Bigizzy
on March 27, 2016, 19:28 GMT

@ CRICKETSUBH
I don't know what you are comparing. There is absolutely no comparison between Virat & ABD in T20 Internationals. Kohli is in a different league.

Geez that was a top class knock from Kohli.....deserved the plaudits well n truly. From an Aussie fan perspective bemused completely with some of Lehmann et al selections.....pace pace pace......only one frontline spinner selected and a youngster at that......only country to not pick their prime spinner.....Lyon should of been selected before Agar......one over for 18 in the whole campaign?....what was the point of picking him......Zampa was the only positive to come from this whole thing from Australia's perspective.....get him on the plane to Sri Lanka quick smart.....disappointing to get knocked out but all in all not surprising considering Australia's fixation on pace......can't have all the number 1 rankings I guess, but Australia has a long way to go in cracking this T20 format.....but is that such a bad thing in the grand scheme of things?.....well done to the top four sides and good luck in the final stages of this comp.

damobfc
on March 27, 2016, 19:25 GMT

would love a root v kohli final. World's 2nd best batsmen v someone who can't handle English conditions. Joking aside, Kohli is in magnificent form. Great competitions are shaped by great players.

Tazzpak
on March 27, 2016, 19:25 GMT

Kohli is just outstanding in every department. Kept the game going and when required unleashed and finished the game. Easily the player in the world. From pak

Behind_the_bowlers_arm
on March 27, 2016, 19:25 GMT

When he is in this mood Kohli is unstoppable and unfortunately for Australia he was definitely that.
Not sure how much Australia could have done differently (apart from having Starc available) but do think Smith was too much captaincy-by-numbers in using Faulkner & Coulter-Nile when Zampa had 2 overs not used.
Did the same in the NZ game where he used him for only one over (for 3 runs).
Not sure why the lack of trust as ,along with Watson today, he has been Australia's best bowler.
In hindsight I would have brought Cameron Boyce as well instead of Agar or Tye neither of whom contributed.

Well done India , think they will go on to win it now.

dhun09
on March 27, 2016, 19:25 GMT

Few questions :1.Is is the First tier Australian team playing this world cup?
2.Best thing Dhawan can do is rotate the strike,get atleast 15 runs .Maintain strike rate of 120.
3.Raina is a good utility player.He player a crucial innings against Bangladesh.Also get a wicket.Please donot criticize him.
4.Rohit will play well against West Indies.Mark my words.
5.Please donot devalued Sachin,he is the best bastman of his generation.He played against quality bowler,hostile pitches.Also inspiration for many young player.Best example world cup 2003.Also he does not have senior like dhoni ,to help or guide him

gaziraihan88
on March 27, 2016, 19:24 GMT

What a 24 hour it's been for England though in sports.Their men cricket team qualified for WT20 semis for only 2nd time,then their senior football team went to Berlin and beat world champions Germany 3-2 in front of their own fans after going 2-0 down with about half an hour left to play,then their women team also qualified for WT20 semis and now their arch-rivals Australia is out of the tournament.Couldn't been much better for England fans.

Kushal.Veerarathne
on March 27, 2016, 19:22 GMT

Definitely this is not a one man show from India ... Kohli the best, Dhoni and Yuvraj
are pretty decent with bat ... Nehra, Bumrah and Jadeja are excellent in death overs ... Ashwin the eternal wicket taker. Raina very good in fielding and Pandya in his
overall preformance

SamRoy
on March 27, 2016, 19:22 GMT

Ok having said whatever I needed to say about Virat let me focus on Watson. Watson is one of the all-time greats of limited overs Australian Cricket. He belongs along with Dean Jones, Ponting, Bevan, Hussey, McGrath, Warne, Brett Lee, Gilchrist, Mark Waugh. (Yes Border, Steve Waugh, Hayden, Gillespie, McDermott, Symonds were also world class limited overs cricketers but fall short of true greatness) Funny 9 out of 10 of them played in the same era and that is why Australia between 2000-2007 was the greatest limited overs team of all time. It is highly unfortunate that Watson gets so much stick for his LBW dismissals in test cricket and he is not separately judged for his great limited overs exploits. He is a great limited overs cricketer and a useful test cricketer who had two great test seasons (in 2009-10 and 2010-11). A test No. 6 (avg 35 with bat) who can give 10-12 cheap overs in a day with ball. In limited overs cricket worth his place as bowler alone and also as a batsman alone.

Cricketequalsachin
on March 27, 2016, 19:20 GMT

Great win and awesome performance by India. They turned it on in last 3 overs.
Now gotta win the cup

ssmalli
on March 27, 2016, 19:20 GMT

Between Australia and NZ performing so differently in this world cup is captaincy and the spinners. Smith needs to learn a lot in T20

Rightman1979
on March 27, 2016, 19:19 GMT

@JAHID_OMAR - "Common Aussies trash this over-hyped mediocre team which have all media super stars.. wishes from BD"

Eat your words my friend. BTW, Ban is the only team with no win in this tournament. Even AF beat WI.

ClownAND2Thugs
on March 27, 2016, 19:18 GMT

Wow after long time i have enjoyed batting like this, kholi is alien. I am a Pakistani fan so i do love watching bowling a lot but today love the batting show from a dude who is from another planet, and everyone else on that field was from our planet.....

vkumar_086
on March 27, 2016, 19:17 GMT

@CRICKETSUBH...AB played more than 100 tests while Kohli played only 40 (Kohli did not get the privilege to bat against Umesh, Varun Aaron, Binny, Ishanth in tests)...AB is playing international cricket since from 13 years, but Kohli is in international cricket arena from 5-6 years...compare the stats after kohli played sometime in tests...he will be miles ahead...I put Kolhi as the best player across ALL FORMATS

CricNcode
on March 27, 2016, 19:16 GMT

What makes Kohli a great (est) chaser ?
1. He's among the very very very few who actually embraces & enjoys pressure than wilt.
2. Only a very few of the above has the skill & airtight technique to do it on will almost every time.
3. Finally, his passion & competitive spirit is second to none.

ELECTRIC_LOCO_WAP4_IS_DELUDED
on March 27, 2016, 19:16 GMT

@JPK1964: Sorry mate, but Sachin was already playing Test cricket at the age of 17 and a prodigy by the time he was 19, playing what many pundits regard, as the best innings on a lightning Perth pitch. Slightest hint of swing and Kohli was exposed, which I'm sure he has figured out how to solve. On the more spicier Aussie pitch, Gabba, Kohli failed whilst Vijay showed his class. Also Kohli, in Tests at least, has yet to score big big hundreds like Williamson and Smith has. Something which Sachin did often. Kohli has only one Test score over 150, but as I said, I am sure he will rectify this. As for ODIs, he has surpassed Sachin and one thing that stands out for Kohli is that he is a better chaser than Sachin. But Kohli still has better players around him, whilst Sachin had lesser players around him.

The_versatile_veteran
on March 27, 2016, 19:15 GMT

Lucky to have watched this chase Live. What a calculated risk free batting approach. All those shots fro Kohl8's Bat would suit to any format of cricket. No switch hit, dil-scoop, reverse sweep. Pure class, Timing&Power synergy. At one point of the chase RD was above 13, still the chase ended with 5 balls to spare. Yuvaraj played a crucial role. MSD finished as usual.
Take a bow CHASE MASTER.
THE FANTASTIC FIVE OF INDIA WOULD HAVE BEEN PRO OF YOU.
PS: why are the BD fans still commenting in this forum for a match in which their team is not playing, in fact after losing all the 4 matches. (May be they would have wanted to know how not to lose a match from winning position, and how to win a match from hopeless situation, because they have never seen it happen with the team.)

kanad_Boston
on March 27, 2016, 19:15 GMT

@CRICLOVERBD2016: I do appreciate your gesture. But I do not accept your solution. In my opinion, nobody should hate anybody.

Kushal.Veerarathne
on March 27, 2016, 19:14 GMT

BD is in 10th position after Afghanisthan :)

Dramit Singh
on March 27, 2016, 19:13 GMT

virat kohli,you are a beauty of a batsman.i don't have any words to describe that how nicely he played and stayed till the last so that he can finish of the game.this innings of kohli would be remembered for a very very long time.but there are some areas of concern too because raina,yuvraj both these guys are clearly struggling.we can give benefit of doubt for our openers but the horrible batting form of raina and yuvi is definitely a matter of a big concern.cricket is a team game and you just can't expect kohli to win matches for india eachn every time.other batsmans now should come forward and take some responsibility.

ShanNachimuthu
on March 27, 2016, 19:12 GMT

King Kohli, the champion of chasing!!! What a clinical performance!!! He is doing it by his orthodox batting, which is stylish and lovely to watch. Thanks to MSD for using Yuvi as bowler. Yuvi played his part well as bowler and as batsman. His partnership with Kohli was crucial and instrumental to keep India within the reach. The obvious tactics of slow back of length deliveries back fired the Aussies. Once couple of boundaries were hit they were clueless and they look confused as if they do not have Plan B. Indian bowlers came back really well after the initial blitz by the Aussies. The form of Dhawan & Raina was worrying and making too much relying on Kholi. Hopefully they will put up a good show in Semis. Good captaincy by MSD and good to see him using Yuvi as bowler. Anyway it was a memorable show by the Indian team.

TheRipper
on March 27, 2016, 19:12 GMT

Watson and Kohli both played like champions. It's unfortunate that Watson had to end up on the losing side. Congrats on a great career Watto! You keep your head high.

MAD_ABOUT_CRICKET_INDIANFAN
on March 27, 2016, 19:12 GMT

Drop S.Dhawan And Y.singh for the team .H.Singh can play the key role against WI . WI team always struggle to rotate the strike against quality spinner . A.Rahane should replace S.Dhawan . S.Raina should bat at no 3 or number 6 where he can freely .NO 3 slot is already booked for V.kohli .In my opinion, S.Raina should bat down the order . I would like to see the given team next match:
Rahane Rohit Kohli Negi Msd Raina H.Pandya H.Singh Ashwin Burmah Nehra .
gl team india
Future t20 team

To all who r saying India one man team its not that IND have any talented players there are technically correct batsmen and good bowlers waiting to their chances but due to dhoni we are still seeing the talentless dhawan Raina and ageing UV in our team..that's terrible bit something we Indians have to deal with...

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 19:10 GMT

Kohli is best

Kushal.Veerarathne
on March 27, 2016, 19:10 GMT

@ALLFORCRICKET

Before all this, please understand that your team Bangladesh is finishing this
tournament at number 10 and below Afghanistan ...

Avijit Maity
on March 27, 2016, 19:09 GMT

Great win. Kohli is a genius. Need to click top order specially Rohit need to be fired. Rahane should get a chance instead of Dhawan.

gaziraihan88
on March 27, 2016, 19:09 GMT

No team has won ICC WT20 unbeaten,so NZ have to make history to do that.Trevor Bayliss has won Big Bash,CLT20 with Sydney Sixers and IPL twice with KKR,so this guy knows what it takes to win T20 tournaments and the final will be played in Eden Gardens,KKR's home ground,which's conditions are very familiar for Bayliss.Other than one Gayle show,WI has struggled to score 120's in their other 3 matches and unless another Gayle special,they could be found short in the semis.The team that has knocked out Australia has won every ICC World Cup(50/20 over) since it first held in 1975.India looks like the favourite,but If any team can deny them,it's Bayliss's free spirited England.Bayliss has the experience,his team got some high class free spirited batsmen who could bat you out in a big final.

Trendulkar2
on March 27, 2016, 19:09 GMT

Australia... You played extremely well and gutsy. This score could have secured the match against any team sans Kohli.

Rip_testcricket
on March 27, 2016, 19:08 GMT

Drop Dhawan and Raina right now I don't wanna see them again.. rahane is as good a fielder as Raina and even bhajjj bats better than Dhawan. Please publish

anshursinha
on March 27, 2016, 19:08 GMT

can't say India is two man army, lot of effort in bowling and fielding to restrict Australia on 160. especially yuvraj by bowling today

CricNcode
on March 27, 2016, 19:08 GMT

Any good cricketer can have A great day in his career...but, only a genius can have almost all days ! k o h l i , take a bow you imperious !

multipack
on March 27, 2016, 19:08 GMT

india have carried rohit, dhawan, raina and yuvraj this far. surely it's time to make some changes? i can understand why rohit gets a pass but dhawan has to be dropped. and at least one if not both of yuvraj/raina. it's actually embarrassing to see how they struggle against any ball that bounces above the knee...

Bala Gopal
on March 27, 2016, 19:07 GMT

Stop comparing Sachin with Kohli. Different generation. Different bowlers. Different type of pressure people terming this as greatest innings ever.. Think of Sharjah 98. Centurion 2003, Perth 2008 from Sachin. Enjoy the show and cherish the joy Kohli brings.

Bigizzy
on March 27, 2016, 19:07 GMT

@ UBAID4U
I don't know what you are comparing. There is absolutely no comparison between Virat & ABD in T20 Internationals. Kohli is in a different league.

In fact in T20 Internationals it is like Kohli is GOD & ABD is barely a man!

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 19:07 GMT

@khalid mansoor...sachin has so many fiftees and hundreds but not so many match winning innings ...

Ashok Kumar
on March 27, 2016, 19:06 GMT

he was not happy with the board, dca, and players didnt paid the respect they needed

insightfulcricketer
on March 27, 2016, 19:06 GMT

Just want to also remind Indian cricket fans - we all remember the 2011 final - Dhoni six and all but what we should never forget the invaluable hand Kohl played with 20 odd runs when Sehwag and Sachin both delivered an egg in the big stage. He got the engine room going when all seemed stalled. A fabulous catch by Dilshan cut short that innings but the making of a genius was there. Plus his famous words Sachin carried Indian team for so long what is it for me to carry him around the stadium.Humble to the core and he means it. The filth he utters sometimes is reserved for ... That is the Delhi boy in him which I completely knowingly understand. We should just remember his heart is in the right place.
We the Indian team are blessed to have a genius in our midst - form is temporary but class is permanent. Henceforth Kohli will fail as any human will but we need to remember this guy has what it takes to deliver in the most of trying circumstances.
Go Kohli !!!

if afridi can be back why not sehwag bring the legend back, why he cant make a come back

serious-am-i
on March 27, 2016, 19:05 GMT

@Syed_imran_abbas: That's what is making this tournament highly unpredictable & most of the pitches condition is due to the weather either one agrees or not. One must remember, last year relatively most of these parts got below par rainfall. Who would have expected Kiwis to be table topper especially playing on a spinning track. @Shuja Rehman: I would have respected your comment, if it came from anyone other than a BD fan. Mirror has to be shown on how well BD respected other teams just under a month ago. Anyways, for that matter... Aussies don't really enjoy a good reputation in India apart from Shane Warne or Adam Gilchrist. Windies & SA have a good following in India because of IPL especially. ABD was treated as their own in Mumbai against India, that tells how we respect the players irrespective of their nation. @cricketcommentary: The pin-drop silence after an fully erupted crowd just an over back is the memory that I always carry on - SRT dismissed after hitting 4 in last over.

Ashok Kumar
on March 27, 2016, 19:04 GMT

bcci must urge sehwag to play on his conditions atleast for two years

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 19:04 GMT

i can see already see many match winning innings from kohli already...it is going to a hell of a list...greatH

Ashok Kumar
on March 27, 2016, 19:04 GMT

sehwag will be remembered always bcoz no player did what he achieved in his career, even god of cricket is was not in contest, viru great player

cricfan57779427
on March 27, 2016, 19:02 GMT

@CRICLOVERBD2016, I hope other BD fans are also matured like you. Being a critic is not wrong but BD fans unlike you are senseless. BD fans pls don't even think that BD can be a rival to India. India's rivals from game perspective are PAK and AUS. I wish India and NZ play finals and my equal support to both of my favorite teams.

Ashok Kumar
on March 27, 2016, 19:02 GMT

u can be a good finisher or captain, dont forget he served for years and never played a single selfish innings in his career

Brambletonian
on March 27, 2016, 19:02 GMT

Wow !! what an incredible performance..King Kohli..you da man..

DriftTurnAndBounce
on March 27, 2016, 19:02 GMT

There are times when words aren't enough to describe a performance on the cricket field; the adjectives seem clumsy, the praise clichéd, and the description utterly prosaic. Virat's performance today was such that it renders any effort to describe it obscenely inadequate.

To finish off a close game is special; to finish off a seemingly lost game single handedly is extraordinary; but to finish off seemingly lost games, in do-or-die situations, single handedly, while playing on your terms, match after match, is nothing short of legendary. Take a bow Virat; you justified your name, which roughly means Gigantic, today.

Kudos to Nehra-ji as well, for that was a great performance under pressure. Well done to MSD, what are we going to do without him, for superb bowling changes and keeping things calm, as usual, after that horror show of a start.

Finally well played to Aussies, that was a well fought game, and good luck to Watto in his retirement.

Good luck Men in Blue! Bring it home!!!

Wild4cricket
on March 27, 2016, 19:01 GMT

@CRICLOVERBD2016 : In general Indian cricket fans are not against BD fans. But out of 1.3 billion fans few may be like that. I'm Bengali .

Ashok Kumar
on March 27, 2016, 19:01 GMT

on his retirement a legend didnt took his name that shows he was greatly mis behaved by juniors, u cant be a legend dis respecting seniors

Ashok Kumar
on March 27, 2016, 19:00 GMT

if he can back up non performing rohit dhawan and raina why didnt he backed sehwag and gambhir

Kushal.Veerarathne
on March 27, 2016, 18:59 GMT

Coming from an SL fan : Dear Bangladesh fans, please give credit when it is due.
The truth is, your team is going home from this tournament at 10th position i.e below Afghanistan, as, you dont have any wins. Sadly, Srilanka will finish at 8th or 9th position depending on how bad they do tomorrow against SA

Congratulations India; welcome to the semi-finals! Brilliant stuff from Kohli. Strange team selection and tactics from Australia, but with India playing like that it wouldn't have mattered a jot what they did. Unstoppable! Good performance from Mr-Marmite/Vegimite-Watson in his last game. Hero-to-zero from the likes of Faulkner as usual...

allforcricket
on March 27, 2016, 18:59 GMT

India very very lucky to make it to semis. Had Bangladesh not tried glamor shots that they India would have still not made it today even beating Australia due to negative and much lower run rate. On top today Smith given out wrongly else Australia would have posted over 180. Not fair but lucky India. Except Kohli no one is playing well so pretty much If Kohli doesn't fire like he didn't against New Zealand and Bangladesh matches India will lose. Let's see how long India rides it's luck.

lan0089
on March 27, 2016, 18:59 GMT

As an Indian fan,(Watching from Australia) India fielded & bowled well to restrict them 160. India's batting is awful except for Kohli's masterclass and Dhoni's calmness. west indies just need to plan for Kohli and everything will fall into place. I seriously hope not. I love the way Afghanistan won against WI just using more spin. It's the time for the openers to get a good stand. we don't want the walking wickets. we cannot afford them anymore. cannot expect Kohli pull this off quite regularly. From Australia's point of view, they badly miss Starc and hazelwood is not a T20 bowler. Believe it or not, Australia will be missing Watson very soon even though they have Mitchell marsh in their dugout.I hope, India wins the cup.

Htc-Baseball
on March 27, 2016, 18:58 GMT

Ppl just dont realize the value of Yuvraj's innings. Those 21 runs were crucial and yes he got out at the right time.

Ashok Kumar
on March 27, 2016, 18:58 GMT

sehwag was never out of form, dhoni disrespected a legend by keeping him out on the name of rotation policy

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 18:58 GMT

to dhoni -- please get rahane in the team for next 2 matches and throw dhawan out...i would rather see rahane get low score in 2 matches which i hardly doubt than useless and baseless dhawan in t20 from last few months .. he was flopped vs SA , ASIA Cup and now THIS WORLD CUP.. what is he doing in the team...time to replace him now and may be harbhajan or other player for raina as well if possible we need good hitters than raina who always gets out on short balls...frustrated

cricketsubh
on March 27, 2016, 18:57 GMT

U can't compare Virat Kohli with abd yes Virat Kohli is a batter t20 batsman than ab but abd far far batter test batsman than Virat Kohli Virat Kohli lots to prove in test cricket he chase well in Indian pitches he needs to do same thing when India chase huge totals overseas conditions he is a brilliant player no doubt but need to prove away from home

Ashok Kumar
on March 27, 2016, 18:57 GMT

sehwag is unlucky got a bad captain who didnt backed him at time

Caesar12
on March 27, 2016, 18:57 GMT

Kudos to Kohli in batting and Nehraji in bowling. Australia is missing a trick by not opening with Warner.

Zishanwadi
on March 27, 2016, 18:57 GMT

Wow!! one man army, well done kohli nice play. Everyone else not looking good in Indian's team, throughout the tournament. Every cricket team around the world please learn from him how to pull match under pressure. Specially PAK &BD, once agine good job master class u proved once agine

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 18:56 GMT

kohli...i wanna see more of this from u...i just cant stop watching ur great innnings and can u please guide ur team mates that how to play underpressure and no pressure cz they r useless

whinging-aussie
on March 27, 2016, 18:56 GMT

not looking good for India despite going through. If Kohli fails they are gonners !

arasanvalan
on March 27, 2016, 18:56 GMT

Nehraji 4 overs 1/20. Once again proved his importance. he is doing a great justice for his selection at this age. Way to go ji. Very much looking forward to see u at WCT20-2018 and WC2019.

calcu
on March 27, 2016, 18:56 GMT

What sheer class by kohli! Truly, does a better batsman exist? Spare a thought for. watson though. He was brilliant in his last Match

Vijay_P_S
on March 27, 2016, 18:55 GMT

@cvenka, A sane comment amidst chaos. Even though we don't agree with some of Dhoni's decisions, he makes things happen. Seems to me that it is only our inability to understand what goes on in his brain. His cricket acumen is superior to us, the mortals.

noptijhopti
on March 27, 2016, 18:55 GMT

The fact remains as clear as broad daylight that sachin followed by sehwag was quite a greater talent than kohli.Anybody who has watched some handsome amount of Sachin innings or Sehwag innings should easily attest to this fact in general.Even Yuvi remains one of the best talents india ever produced.But talent is only one part of the story.How many times you deliver when chips are down ?I think in that aspect its not at all going to take very long when Kohli will stand above Tendulkar in that aspect.But just don't get too much submerged in the aura about chasing.He may not have done that well in second innings,but Sachin so many times gave India thunderous start in the first innings of a ODI that most of the time India won.So on chasing record Virat is definitely better than Tendulkar,but on talent scale,well,please refrain from comparing him to Tendulkar. Most importantly someone can be a great player or even legendary without being a Lara,Sachin,Wasim,Warns,Murali.So no nonsense plz

oldmonkfan
on March 27, 2016, 18:55 GMT

pandya is a mediocre player. should be dropped after this tournament. Yuvi is clearly struggling. May be its time for him to take a call on his career.

GR8GAUR
on March 27, 2016, 18:52 GMT

Next are the Windies, take them lightly at your own peril. Now even though IND and Windies are friendly I'd really like someone like Sammy or Gayle to drop a bomb in press conference saying India is a one man team. This is the only way I feel Dhawan and Rohit might wake up from their slumber. As for Raina, we all know he's Dhoni's favorite. Raina, pls make way for Pandey. I bet even if Pandey proves to be 50% of Kohli, India will be no.1 in limited format again.

Wildprairyrose
on March 27, 2016, 18:52 GMT

BD is in 10th position after Afghanisthan :)

Cyrus_The_Virus
on March 27, 2016, 18:52 GMT

And those two UN-DROPPABLE players Dhawan & Raina continues to get a free ride into team India. Raina can't play short ball & all Dhawan does is twirl his moustache, hits a 6 once in a blue moon & thereby cement his place in the 11 for the rest of the tournament. If India fails to win the cup the biggest blame will be on these 2 USELESS mediocre players. Experiment with Pandya at the top of the order, im not saying it will work but surely he can't do any worse than these two jokers are currently doing at the moment.

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 18:51 GMT

Australia doesn't know what Indians can do to finish target in
March ending ..!!!! HA HA HA HA

missionbegins2011
on March 27, 2016, 18:51 GMT

Virat Kohli has surpassed everyone to be the best limited over player of all time in my opinion, ahead of hussey, bevan, klusener, tendulkar etc simply because of the consistency with which he pulls of the chases successfully, absolutely incredible. Icecool Dhoni also deserves accolades as his mere presence itself assures the fans of success. Another good thing that comes out of this victory is the dismay of all the SL, BD, PAK fans who wanted IND to be knocked out. My advice to these fans is to prepare themselves for much bigger blows when IND wins the semis and lifts the trophy on 3rd of April.

Bonifacio Vaz
on March 27, 2016, 18:50 GMT

Wow I love it
Thanks to a steady headed knock by First Kohli

northwest
on March 27, 2016, 18:50 GMT

Seriously.. what are the top 3 batsmen doing in this tournament? We can't keep depending on Kohli. If Kohli was out right after Raina, the game would've definitely been out of our hands. And it was the same case with the previous matches as well. Dhoni might not be wrong in backing up the players, but the players need to take the responsibility. They had so many days to practice before this match and is this what they had to show? I wouldn't say played really well in the last matches.. it was Kohli, Dhoni and bowlers who played well in the last 4 games. If this continues, I don't think there would be any hopes depending solely on Kohli and Dhoni.

multipack
on March 27, 2016, 18:50 GMT

I didn't think Kohli could ever surpass his famous assault on Sri Lanka is Oz but he did today. Absolute magical innings. It is a miracle that a team with a misfiring Rohit, Dhawan, Raina and Yuvraj is through to the semifinals. And that miracle is called Kohli. Can he carry the pathetic Indian top order for another two matches?

Rajashekhar Donthoju
on March 27, 2016, 18:50 GMT

@Suhail28 How Yuvraj is a failure? He played very well with 1 wicket

S
on March 27, 2016, 18:49 GMT

Wasn't ever a fan of Tendulkar but I just cannot deny that Kohli is too good of a batsman.

Teodorick V Antonio
on March 27, 2016, 18:49 GMT

Watson is more of a bowler than Hazlewood and Coulter-Nile combine. Tough luck without Starc and Cummins. Anyways congratualtion to Kholi, a very special inning with class.

SamRoy
on March 27, 2016, 18:47 GMT

Virat Kohli is by far the best chaser ever. Kohli, daylight, MSD, Bevan.

crrkiran
on March 27, 2016, 18:47 GMT

As im typing, tears of joy are falling on the screen. Thank you kohli.. salute

Khalid Mansoor Siddiqui
on March 27, 2016, 18:47 GMT

Kohli is the greatest batsman of this era much above the overrated AB devilliers.he is even better than sachin when the team is in dire straits. sachin was more of a century maker rather than a match winnerhby the time his career ends I think he would have broken many records of sachin.he is an all time great already

Chirag Adatia
on March 27, 2016, 18:47 GMT

The genius. The magician. The eternal fighter. And the ultimate champion. That's Virat Kohli for you!

Crickvikk
on March 27, 2016, 18:47 GMT

Replace Raina by Rahane and Dhawan by Manish Pandey or Naman Ojha. They had enough chances to be proved yet still they couldn't. We had been seeing their weakness almost in every game.

jokerbala
on March 27, 2016, 18:47 GMT

Yuvi, Raina should make way for rahane and shreyas Iyer

vattettan
on March 27, 2016, 18:46 GMT

@TOMMYTUCKERSAFFA - Is that the first time you wrote something good about India or Indian players? :)
@BD fans - Read the Aus fans comments here and learn how to respect the game. You cannot find a lot of comments blaming the Smith decision as the only reason for Aus defeat. Whereas if it happened against BD the comments section will have only that. If you read the comments section for Ind-BD match in the ODI world cup you will know what I meant.

abc3
on March 27, 2016, 18:46 GMT

Mahmood_Siddiqui and other BD fans. Stop acting like fools and posting silly conspiracy theories. You are insulting players and the game of cricket as a whole by posting such useless theories. It used to be hilarous to read your comments but it's getting to the point of being ridiculous now. Behave like matured fans please.

Chirag Adatia
on March 27, 2016, 18:45 GMT

Dhawan needs to be given a stick. And Rohit, a stern warning. Need to bring in Rahane asap. And Pandey soon. Then we are talking!

Gaurav Sethi
on March 27, 2016, 18:44 GMT

I LOVE watching Kohli play. It is an utter pleasure to see this man bat and field. He plays with passion, skill, technique, beauty and enormous intelligence. He is one of the great cricketing pleasures of my life.

Mahesh Raj
on March 27, 2016, 18:44 GMT

and not one word about dhoni ....lolz

fairfan
on March 27, 2016, 18:44 GMT

Unbelievable speed at which the comments are coming through. Already 300 in 45 minutes after the game!!!

NCP1
on March 27, 2016, 18:44 GMT

Brilliant Virat leaves only 4 for the last over. When will India change their failing openers and bring in Rahane or another young batsman. Both Dhawan and Rohit are inconsistent at best. India riding on Virat in this series, need more support from others as Dhoni suggested today. Yuvi is actually proving to be a partnership builder and can change a game in couple of balls by sending them out of park. Good captaincy by Dhoni in allowing Yuvi to go before him.

vkumar_086
on March 27, 2016, 18:44 GMT

BD is placed 10 the among all teams in this tournament with ZERO wins...Afghanistan today beat the mighty West Indies...ICC have done a great job by including BD in qualifying rounds...I support to take out the test status from BD & to give it for performing teams like Afghanistan, Ireland, Netherlands, Oman...

arun.cric.fan
on March 27, 2016, 18:43 GMT

I think its a dhawan & rohit ploy to fireup kohli... and it seems to have worked *all the time*

proud_indya
on March 27, 2016, 18:42 GMT

@BDCRICLOVER2016.....The sad fact is this; There are a lot of decent fans from all nations who support their team, and applaud a fine performance by any player irrespective of nationality. Unfortunately, they are outnumbered by chest thumping zealots whose vitriolic, parochial and denigrating comments make me cringe. Not all Indian cricket fans (or Bangla fans for that matter) fall into this category. Enjoy the cricket, and remember that for every keyboard warrior there are ten genuine sports fans who praise a good batsman, a great fielder or bowling wizardry, all of which Bangla have in abundance. Cheers from India.

Coolcapricorn
on March 27, 2016, 18:42 GMT

@TOMMYTUCKERSAFFA Gosh, never thought I'd see the day when you would say anything complimentary about an Indian player or the Indian team! Am shocked, think I need to sit down for a bit & make myself a stiff drink! :)

siri12345
on March 27, 2016, 18:42 GMT

the truth is aussies have never cared about t20 worldcups neither will ever .wake me up when someone break their records of wining 5 wcs still the best team to play cricket by a margin

brusselslion
on March 27, 2016, 18:42 GMT

Not sure what I was thinking. If England do play India, it won't be until the final of course.

NP_NY
on March 27, 2016, 18:41 GMT

So many people jumping the gun on Smith's decision! Snicko showed a think edge. Ready to eat your words now?

Madhusudhan_6-Wd-4-NB-3-Wkt-2-LBW-1
on March 27, 2016, 18:41 GMT

Australia were superb in first 5 overs of the match. -_-
After their batting faltered. Indians bowled well :-)
Indian batting was very poor, before mesmerizing Viraat & MSD exploded. :-D
What is this Shikhar, Rohit, Raina doing in the team? Right through this series they have failed. :-(
In Asia Cup too they failed. :-) Why is MSD and Selectors keep on sticking with them? :-(
This is creating pressure on Viraat and MSD to score runs at higher asking rate :-(

NP_NY
on March 27, 2016, 18:39 GMT

Can't help but feel sorry for Shane Watson. What a whole-hearted performance in his last match! Take a bow Watto.

bala_sachin
on March 27, 2016, 18:39 GMT

Kohli is not ordinary man ...extraordinary man... he something else

jazzpb06
on March 27, 2016, 18:38 GMT

salute to virat kohli done brilliant job for India but concerns abt openers if they can't score runs why they wasting balls in power play india need to take full advantage of 1st six overs of power play if they give chance to rahane that will b great i think harbhjan can get in place of ashwin

ssmalli
on March 27, 2016, 18:38 GMT

Shane Watson's success as a bowler id due to his intelligence and cricketing mind. We miss one more good player to retirement when he still has a lot potential left.

arasanvalan
on March 27, 2016, 18:37 GMT

What an innings Virat. Better player than sachin while playing under pressure. That four 4s at the second final over showed your class. Excellent Placement and timing. One of the greatest innings till now.

Sanjay Naidu
on March 27, 2016, 18:37 GMT

As much as I loved kohli innings and fell in love with him we cannot forget nehra who made this possible by restricting them for such a low score. This is the reason why we don't have good bowlers we forgot them and their heroics will be ignored. Lets remember this great guy nehra and his great spell of bowling.

cricketsubh
on March 27, 2016, 18:37 GMT

Sohan chahal@ I don't agree with you this is a easy win for India Australia have very weak bowling attack totally inexperienced defending 160 in a flat pitch very hard for Australia with weak bowling attack

JPK1964
on March 27, 2016, 18:37 GMT

People who says Sachin is better than Virat perhaps has not seen cricket. Never ever as a Non Indian seen Sachin playing a stellar innings and taking India home while on a tuff chase. This guy Virat is a God while Sachin and rest of world cricketers are God's followers.

Rajesh_india_1990
on March 27, 2016, 18:37 GMT

Virat kohli masterclass knocked out Australia..a perfect revenge for the world cup 2015 semifinals which was played in roads to nullify India's bowling threat....what a knockout punch by kohli..bye bye Australia

wpbus13
on March 27, 2016, 18:36 GMT

Kohli is a genius! To play an innings like that under so much pressure...just unbelievable! He lives for days like these. The other batters need to step up, cannot always leave it up to Kohli.

BigINDFan
on March 27, 2016, 18:36 GMT

MSD should read fans comments to get rid of Yuvi, Dhawan and Pandya. Bring Rahane, Pandey and Negi. Bumrah should be replaced by Shami.

NP_NY
on March 27, 2016, 18:36 GMT

As Brydon rightly points out, choosing to bat first in a limited overs match with Kohli in the chasing side, is always a gamble for any team. Sure, it is very hard for captains to not believe they won't get his wicket, but look at those mind-boggling chasing stats! Captains should think again before electing to bat first against India. For India, the one man show is a worry. Even Kohli is bound to fail sometimes. Who is going to pick up the slack?!

Cricketit
on March 27, 2016, 18:36 GMT

Dhoni best captain ever in all formats.This coming from a protea fan.Kholi the best batsmen in this era forget AB.

Sunny Kumar
on March 27, 2016, 18:35 GMT

The way India played today I can't see any chance for mighty West Indies in seni final. Now India have shown their true colors and they are unstoppable. Good to see Indian team shown good form and killing instinct at right time. Kohli is one man army and can be dangerous at his day. Best of luck India for winning cup.

Javed.
on March 27, 2016, 18:35 GMT

What a player. checking his stats in last four years, I must say he is probably one of the top two or three in last 40 years or so

Kushal.Veerarathne
on March 27, 2016, 18:35 GMT

Every team has one special player ... williamson, s.smith, shabbir, sharjeel, gayle, ABD, Root, Shahzad etc But V.Kohli is much above any one in the list. SL team, this
is how cricket should be played, play to death to win.

And BD fans, pls understand the fact that you are leaving this tournament at
number 10 i.e below Afghanistan, as, you dont have any wins. SL sadly, is proudly placed at 8

Avi N Ash
on March 27, 2016, 18:35 GMT

We've seen how Bumrah and Pandya changed the team's composition and energy levels. It's time to bring in Manish Pandey, Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson etc.

FTBRocks
on March 27, 2016, 18:34 GMT

i was totally relaxed as i had no doubts as it was bit high scoring match india chasing against australia in in india..but real problrm is dhawans, sharmas , rainas etc are becomming baggages now even on indian tracks...

bbumbum
on March 27, 2016, 18:33 GMT

The turning point was Yuvraj's catch. In hindsight, if Watson dropped that one, Aussies could have won. I hope, the "emotional" indian selectors drop Yuvraj and move on with someone more deserving and younger.

the_bigbull
on March 27, 2016, 18:32 GMT

Agree Kohli was brilliant. But lets not forget our bowlers, who did so well to restrict Aus to 160. At one stage, 200 seemed a mere formality

ubaid4u
on March 27, 2016, 18:32 GMT

Kohli is a genius when it comes to chasing but ABD is a complete package everywhere. Admit it.

DeepakPIncha
on March 27, 2016, 18:32 GMT

It's a one man team or a 11 man team... doesn't matter.What matters is that the one man team is beating all the other teams.So keep whining haters

suhail28
on March 27, 2016, 18:32 GMT

again failure for Dhawan and Yuvraj...plz they dont deserve..can someone tell to Dhoni..team india is not his team..right person deserve to play not failure so do not include Dhawan and Yuvraj...

I really dream about this:
When BD loose to India - Indian fans will say to BD fans, "You played good cricket, but India played better today. Don't be upset, you will be the winner when you will play better, but India will play good".

When India loose to BD - Bd fans will say to Indian Fans, "Don't worry brother, it was just Bd's day. But still we have a lot to learn from you."

And then sweet hugs (Jadu Ki Jhappi / Kolakuli) will be exchanged before leaving.

I am desperately waiting....

CHINAMAN_UK
on March 27, 2016, 18:31 GMT

With Virat you feel he knows so well when to get to "212 degrees".. born out of superbe cricketing skills( technical, fitness) applied with a mindset that has immense self belief and vision to see the way to completion. Lucky to have witnessed the game today

Stanly.Mathew
on March 27, 2016, 18:31 GMT

it's high time others should shoulder burden. Kohli cannot win matches all the time. It seems our team forget that cricket is a team game. come on guyz......

shaileshwillbe
on March 27, 2016, 18:31 GMT

Kohli you beauty.... Wow what a player.... So proud to be of the same country as Kohli...

Coolcapricorn
on March 27, 2016, 18:31 GMT

As MSD said in the post-match interviews, we can't keep on relying on the genius of VK & so all the many other 'passengers' in the team need to pull their finger out & contribute to the team or get out! We got many other hungry young players like Manish Pandey who are waiting to be given similar opportunities like the ones who are consistently failing! Rohit seems again to be unable to steal singles in rotating the strike & get the innings going, so then resorts to playing a silly shot & getting out! Raina & Dhawan seem to be walking wickets, so don't know where to start in being critical of them but we simply can't carry all these passengers in a WC semi-final or final!

kjpdavid
on March 27, 2016, 18:29 GMT

Honorable mention : Shane Watson. Solid batting, outstanding bowling and a great catch in a sudden death match. We will miss your all round contributions, mate. Not bad retiring as one of the top ranked T20i allrounders.

GR8GAUR
on March 27, 2016, 18:29 GMT

@SHARRNSTONE You mean tracks like in SA where AUS were 48 all out or the ones like in ENG where they managed 60 only? I say bring on the turners and AUS will be 50, 40, 60, 45 all out.

nagena
on March 27, 2016, 18:28 GMT

I suppose some marks are due to Yuvraj Singh for staying around when he was crippled: the game wouldn't had such a thrilling end. India should bestow its highest medal on Watson who took a fantastic catch to remove the glue-like Yuvraj, otherwise skipper Dhoni couldn't have come in. Singles became twos, boundaries blossomed where before was desert. Two overs brought 39 runs. When Watson caught Yuvraj he looked triumphant, not knowing what a blow he had dealt his team! Afterwards he looked downcast, as if saying, "What have I done?" What to say about Kohli? Simply that he is, by some distance, the best batsman in the world today. By the way West Indies played against lowly Afghanistan and lost, it seemed they did so not to meet exuberant New Zealand in the semis. They succeeded in their wish: England will do so. But the Windies will meet India instead, with Kohli and the rest, a case of from the frying pan into the fire. Come on Windies! This has been the most dramatic World T20s yet!

Gowers_Great_Tiger_Moth_Flyby
on March 27, 2016, 18:28 GMT

Looks like the Outback big mouths who a few weeks ago were shouting that Australia would be no.1 in all formats have gone missing No doubt choking on their words yet again.

proud_indya
on March 27, 2016, 18:28 GMT

A key reason for Australia bowing out early in yet another T20 World Cup is the lack of the incisive pace bowling they had in the past. Without Starc, the Aussie attack does look a little toothless on flat pitches. Many Oz fans have rightly pointed out that the constant churn in the T20 team can be damaging, but the team management doesn't seem to care. Looking forward to the keenly anticipated end of this tournament.

NP_NY
on March 27, 2016, 18:27 GMT

Wow! What an innings. The silence of our India hating neighbors is deafening. Kohli has simply schooled everyone.

Thozhan
on March 27, 2016, 18:27 GMT

Rahane and Negi deserve a better chance than Raina, Rohit and Dhawan...:) Even we can let Ashwin to open the innings with Rahane who can score better than the current openers..:)

GreenQuest
on March 27, 2016, 18:26 GMT

Kohli is an absolute beauty to watch run chase! He is definitely way more entertainer than SRT. BAN should learn from Kohli and Dhoni how to perform in a high volt cricket match. Sorry to see it again that team IND is just two man's team and the rest are ornaments. Good luck IND in the semi!!

rh26
on March 27, 2016, 18:25 GMT

MSD hit the last four to win the match, Bangladesh do not try this at home.

trinal
on March 27, 2016, 18:25 GMT

@sharrenstone , Australia can perform only in bouncy track , not the slow track , we showed good batting display in the recently concluded T20 series in Australia. first u stop sledging then start learning how to bat in the slow surface . Two years back aussie sledges kholi continuously, now you stopped sledging him after continuous slap from our batsman kholi by runs. where your ugly sledging goes....

Paddy1984
on March 27, 2016, 18:24 GMT

Kohli is unquestionably the best t20 batsman in the world. Great performance against a strong bowling line up. Well played to all teams so far, it's been a great tournament. Hoping for an England India final so we can test ourselves against the best in their home conditions, it's the best way for our young team to improve.

espncricinfomobile
on March 27, 2016, 18:23 GMT

Virat's 82 is the best innings I have witnessed. Virat is extremely talented and a great sportsman and does proud to the game of cricket.

Pefe A Akuru
on March 27, 2016, 18:23 GMT

India next up is WI. WI lost to Afgha today. But can beat India or any other team by 50 runs. Very unpredictable team.

BeAHuman
on March 27, 2016, 18:23 GMT

A really fine innings. Yesterday Matthews played a solo ...and this was in a way similar. As usual Rohit departed while chasing. Dhawan is unpredictable. Raina seems to be taking things for granted. Probably Dhoni could have played rahane and had him in some form. Yuvrajs injury and early loss of wickets put such pressure on Kohli but he played brilliantly. Dhoni should train either Ashwin or Jadeja as a pinch hitter. Go in and get the run rate up...especially when the openers are not firing. We need some innovation there. Maybe Australia missed starc. India cannot always ask Kohli and Dhoni to save them. Rohit Raina and shikar must contribute. Now India will be hard to stop.

illuminate
on March 27, 2016, 18:23 GMT

Just so emotionally exhausted after the match that I was not expecting to post. Then I come here and see our Bangladeshi neighbors posting about how India was "lucky" and some with even more abhorrent comments on conspiracy theories.
Maybe if more people in your country learnt a little about cricket, your team would eventually rack up a few wins at a decent tournament.

Al.Turner
on March 27, 2016, 18:23 GMT

Indians will feel this tournament as a rollarcoaster ride. This game to an extreme high chasing at 13 per over and then the absolute drubbing in the opening match against the mighty Blackcaps.

anshursinha
on March 27, 2016, 18:22 GMT

incredible India, just awesome

9971
on March 27, 2016, 18:21 GMT

We are again going to hear about how Aussies don't value this format. Yawnnnn!!

tmp789
on March 27, 2016, 18:21 GMT

To all the haters of India and Indian cricket, especially from the jealous neighbours, grow up.

BD has LOST ALL 4 matches, and you expect us to believe you are the best side in the world. BD lost by 75 runs to NZ , surely you could do better. Even AF won ONE match.

To Pak friends, you guys always give credit where it is due, thank you.

zs32
on March 27, 2016, 18:21 GMT

@OLDMONKFAN - Ha ha ha! I think you are trying to start a discussion which will end up with close to a thousand emotional comments even after heavy moderating and very few of them would stick to the point or deal with the question in a logical way (Yes That's us Indian fans for you). Please let us enjoy this great victory for now.

GreenQuest
on March 27, 2016, 18:20 GMT

Kohli is an absolute beauty to watch run chase! He is definitely way more entertainer than SRT. BAN should learn from Kohli and Dhoni how to perform in a high volt cricket match. Sorry to see it again that team IND is just two man's team and the rest are ornaments. Good luck IND in the semi!!

Thozhan
on March 27, 2016, 18:20 GMT

Well Played Virat.. You are the master of Chase.... Well-supported by Yuvi and Dhoni at the right time. Yuvi should bat before Raina since he needs more balls to get settle.. In this game when the wicket was falling cheaply, Yuvi stayed there for a while without losing the wicket and letting Dhoni come early before 14th over. Great Job.. Dhoni came in at the right time to support Virat to convert ones into twos.. Still waiting for a good show from Dhoni .. Openers are not doing any good to India at all its time to give chance to Rahane.... Ashwin is lot better than the Openers.. Atleast he will rotate the strike and score run a ball...

GR8GAUR
on March 27, 2016, 18:20 GMT

@SAMELBA You better be a Pom or kiwi fan to criticise Kohli. Anyways, even if India won by 10 wickets, you'd still have your excuses. The thing is fans like to remember one bad decision that favors India but not those dozens that goes against. When India gets howler, then DRS argument comes to the rescue, isn't it? BTW all these years teams and players have become great by feeding off to mediocre Indian bowling, Smith became Smith by making runs against club level Indian bowlers but now when we are winning against average bowling, its ordinary at best. Keep up the hypocrisy for I'm loving the smoke coming out from haters.

Thewarriorofthebleedbluearmy
on March 27, 2016, 18:19 GMT

BRUSSELSLION- India and West Indies will the semi-final in Mumbai on 31st March not India and England..England will play against New Zealand in New Delhi on 29th March..

CriInInd
on March 27, 2016, 18:18 GMT

Salute to Kohli. You are a genius. What an innings. I don't care what all the haters say, it's a one man team. Too bad you don't have a Kohli in your lineup. Just too bad.

sachin_vvsfan
on March 27, 2016, 18:18 GMT

Raina looks overweight and does not seem to be in good shape. Still looks better than Dhawan. One of Pandya/Raina should try to open the next game if we bat first. Not a bad choice i say!!

gaziraihan88
on March 27, 2016, 18:17 GMT

It's official.Since Sachin,Yuvraj&Laxman,Australia have a new nemesis from India,Virat Kohli.The teams that knocks out Australia have ALWAYS won the ICC World Cup's in the past,so it would be a new history If India doesn't win WT20 2016 from here on.

Some interesting stats. It took Australia 12 years to win first 50/60 over world cup despite reaching finals once so they are the next T20 world cup may see a change in their fortune. Out of semi finalist NZ is the only team which hasnt won the T20 world cup and so far in the five T20 world cups always a new team has won the cup. So by that stat NZ are the firm favourites followed by India, England and WI. No host team has won the T20 world cup as yet. So India would have to produce form and performance of 2011 50 over world cup at home to create history.

NoBS13
on March 27, 2016, 18:16 GMT

Enough with the conspiracy theories. India proved to be a better team and won fair and square. There is no free lunches in this world. End of story

rockingrrr
on March 27, 2016, 18:16 GMT

India scored last 39 runs in 2.1 overs..wow..truly indian death bowling improved a lot...if old india they wolud have scored 180 -190..what we want to say about kohli..,?no words..Even we are not that much experts to praise him..wonderful..dont comapre him next sachin...keep kohli as always..kohli s sepearate..what a running between two great indian sprinters....i have no words to praise daily..doing that day in day out..just admire this young man..even our indian players raina dhawan can learn from him..one of the beat chases..ashwin will bounce back in semis..well palyed aussie too..but cant stop kohli..well played india..all our suncontinent fans are agaianst us except pakistan..but we keep moving..cmon india...

Hindh_88
on March 27, 2016, 18:16 GMT

What about Zampa bowled only 2 overs..

Naveen Kumar Ch
on March 27, 2016, 18:15 GMT

Green Pitch at Asia cup

vasupill
on March 27, 2016, 18:15 GMT

Virat has proved today that he is the Samrat (Emperor) of chases. Well played!!

villagebloke
on March 27, 2016, 18:15 GMT

Well played Kohli. India were on the losing track for most part of the game. Indian scoreline starts like 10-15/2 with Sharma abd Dhawan being big failures at the top. Its high time they are dropped.

MukeshDeo
on March 27, 2016, 18:14 GMT

Virat the new god of Cricket better than Tendulkar

samraghuvanshi
on March 27, 2016, 18:14 GMT

Dhoni comes in 14 th over
Kohli: too many runs to make
Phone: you are here to make runs I came just to hit the winning shot.
Take a bow to the one man batting lineup Kohli

CSShakiL
on March 27, 2016, 18:14 GMT

plz stop comparing virat kohli with sachin......this guy has more telent then sachin.......and will set new standard in cricket.... cant compare Kohli with anyone...... he is greatest of all......finally a amazing inn by a amazinglly talented guy.

GR8GAUR
on March 27, 2016, 18:14 GMT

Whoever thought that Warner at 2 down is good idea has to b e the dumbest person. And the bitter truth is its all because of Steve Smith the most stubborn captain who thinks 1 down belongs to the best and he is the best. Warner, Finch to open, Khawaja at 1 down and 2 down to Smith or maybe they can shuffle to make left right going. Anyways, after 53-0 in 4 overs you have to admit Indian bowlers did their job brilliantly.

andrewarthur
on March 27, 2016, 18:12 GMT

I'll make just two points:
1) Virat Kohli is the best batsman of our generation
2) If you want to beat India, make them bat first. Never let India chase.
Just my two cents.

steve.waugh
on March 27, 2016, 18:12 GMT

Hats off to Shane Watson for a stellar career. Great servant to Aussie cricket across all formats.

Another fabulous innings of pure brilliance from Kohli. He's the Tendulkar of this generation, carrying the Indian team single-handedly. Time for the other batsmen, especially Raina, to step up to the mark.

DriftTurnAndBounce
on March 27, 2016, 18:12 GMT

JB633: And we won't be losing sleep over whether or not Australian fans value T20 format. Ciao.

While i am against giving numerous chances to non performing players , I have to to grudgingly agree with dhoni's policy of continuing with the winning squad. Somehow dhoni is making things happening with this team & now i think it is better not to to tinker with this setup which somehow manages to win

VIRAT_1996
on March 27, 2016, 18:11 GMT

Australia sticked to a plan while bowling, but when Kohli took charge they succumbed to the pressure of game. Kohli is a legend in making.

@samelba so many things wrong with your comment. Australia didn't collapse. India pulled it back with some really good bowling. Umpiring wasn't completely bad. Just one borderline decision. India didn't barely scrap through. They had 5 balls remaining at the end. In T20, that's a lot. And India won't be facing England. It's India vs West Indies. England might themselves get knocked out by NZ. Don't comment just for the sake of commenting

Nallakunta
on March 27, 2016, 18:10 GMT

Again the same one man saved the team India. India again proves that they are one man Army but that one man is as strong as any other team.

sumit1982
on March 27, 2016, 18:09 GMT

I think more than virat batting ability I have to say great fitness he have,to run 2 consecutive manner in such a big ground.That's not easy task.I hope Yuvi is fine ,I still think pandya is weak link in blowing .Today pitch also play well through out 40 overs.

Coolcapricorn
on March 27, 2016, 18:09 GMT

@CRICLOVERBD2016 Total respect to you for your comments. Why do some people need to hate when as cricketing fans, we should admire all good performances or talent, even if it is from or in a player from another country. Guess all haters got nothing else better to do in their mise rable lives! Best wishes, from an Indian fan.

HDG1978
on March 27, 2016, 18:09 GMT

This was a perfect riposte to all those non-SC fans who were predicting that no SC team will be part of the SF line-up.India was ranked No.1 in T20Is for nothing.And the best of the Asian teams and the recently crowned Asian champions have rightfully qualified for the semi finals. All the best Team India.Looking forward to a couple of changes to the XI in the SF.An extra spinner in place of Pandya who conceded 10 of the last 2 balls of the Australian innings to make Kohli & co's task harder. Sincerely feel Rahane,who has been so successful in the IPL for RR and is a batsman with all the shots in the book should open in place of the over-rated Dhawan. Moot question is will our stubborn captain MSD consider and comply?

crindo77
on March 27, 2016, 18:09 GMT

No surprises so far- as far as India are concerned. The quality players continue to deliver; I would have loved to see Rahane in this team as I was witness to his century in the Lords Test which was a top innings. Raina, I suppose completes the "balance" of this team, esp with fielding/off spin etc, but with Yuvraj in,really? and I maintain he is a below par technically deficient batter. Meanwhile all hail King Kohli- this boy loves to and can win - great for Test cricket.

Sohan Chahal
on March 27, 2016, 18:09 GMT

India needed a miracle to chase this target and kohli did that miracle. Credit for indian win goes to kohli and bowlers.

Savoul Pelister
on March 27, 2016, 18:09 GMT

I would like Jarrod Kimber to write an article on how India played from the similar situation they were in the semi-finals in the last world cup, after he wrote about those nurdles by Dhoni in the Semi. I really like to read what he would say now. Bow to Virat and Dhoni. I like the way Yuvi played too, but unfortunate he is injured.

ibad.1987
on March 27, 2016, 18:08 GMT

Sehwag, despite his aggressive batting style, was dropped because he failed consistently, right? Why should Rohit, Raina and Dhawan be made exception?

justanotheropinion
on March 27, 2016, 18:08 GMT

Indians, i in particular enjoy playing with Aus becuase they are the best and ruling the roost for couple of decades. Always wanted Ind to play like them or better than them as there is deep respect which came out from their consistence performance. Bad luck today.Thoroughly enjoyed today's match. Still not convincing performance, Rohit and Dhawan have to step up. The best part of today was Ashish Nehra, Bumrah (after considing 19 runs in first over) & Watto, the fight back started from there. What can i say Virat at such a young age, he is chasing down scores like this. I just can't imagine how better you will be in your 30s ( batsman's best years). Running between was amazing best i have ever seen. They were taking couples for Smith and Warner that was just amazing. To sum it up, Ind showed more hunger.

JackCooper
on March 27, 2016, 18:08 GMT

Can Kohli give some lessons to our own ABD on how to bat under pressure? I am amazed. Respect from SA.

Ramakalyan Ranuva
on March 27, 2016, 18:08 GMT

kohli is full meals and dhoni meeta paan..great combination

magnetic_loco_WAP4
on March 27, 2016, 18:08 GMT

Now Aussie fans will find an excuse that they are playing 35th string side.

manat6473
on March 27, 2016, 18:08 GMT

Virat...hats off! One of the best chases that I was privileged to watch, ranks alongside Sachin's desert storm! Coincidence that both were against Aussies! GO INDIA GO!

JackCooper
on March 27, 2016, 18:08 GMT

Can Kohli give some lessons to ABD on how to bat under pressure?

Avi56
on March 27, 2016, 18:08 GMT

king kohli for a reason..i have seen many good innings but this was masterclass... he is a legend i the making..but shane watson was even a bigger master class with the balll...will miss such a world class all rounder

sanjay13881
on March 27, 2016, 18:08 GMT

What a inning from mr virat every day while chasing and finishing on awesome. There were earlier we see 1 in 10 innings but he do it regularly. I dont have words to describe. Have fun guys.

Amir Aslam
on March 27, 2016, 18:07 GMT

Virat Kohli is too much for cricket! Best of the Best!!

insightfulcricketer
on March 27, 2016, 18:07 GMT

Kohli the genius - the resume keeps getting longer and longer!!!

Watson again showed how underrated a bowler he has been. His canniness kept Aussies in the game. Also Steve did not play for broke by giving Zampa one more over. Who knows what could have happened.

Rohit Sharma better click from now on! The joyride on Kohli's back should be over now for some of these guys. Time to play with guts and bat around Kohli .

Ramesh shivdasan
on March 27, 2016, 18:07 GMT

Australia didn't bowl badly really it was just some surreal batting from a very determined and outrageously talented batsman. Man how he took the game away, I'm still in awe and shock. Please let us not go overboard and start addressing Virat too as god. But one thing is for sure even Sachin the designated cricketing god of India should

MukeshDeo
on March 27, 2016, 18:06 GMT

Its time for think tank to give a rest to Dhawan and Raina...i think always slow start of of opners put india down...what abt Rohit neither he give a quik start nor keep his wicket..

Hariom Dahad
on March 27, 2016, 18:06 GMT

Austrelia sent India Home in 2015 World Cup SF... India pay back in 2016 World Cup QF with Intrest..

Sharang Sharma
on March 27, 2016, 18:06 GMT

How many more chances do we need to give dhawan and raina before they're kicked out of the team

Prash_Critique
on March 27, 2016, 18:05 GMT

Today was the day of 'Men In Blues' - India and Afganistan!! Congratulations to both of these great nations.

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 18:05 GMT

aus knocked out india in 2015 world cup and india gave them back by knocking them out tonite...bleed blue...go india go

Teodorick V Antonio
on March 27, 2016, 18:05 GMT

There is a lesson to be learn here, make sure bring your best spinners to SC. New Zealand did their homework and was rewarded. Australia should have brought in Agar, to be pair with Zampa. But the curious case is Zampa just bowled 2 overs, same like the 1st match he bowled one over only for 3 runs. This is insane captaincy by Smith. First of all, I don't why he is in the team, as Finch is tge original captain in T20 format.

Tasneem Z Lakdawala
on March 27, 2016, 18:05 GMT

kohli did it again and in style go india go

ratdee
on March 27, 2016, 18:05 GMT

Great win to knockout aussies.smith's dismissal was poor umpiring decision.Cool and great temperament from evergreen kohli.He delivers again for team india when it really matter in style.Yuvi's small contribution should not be discounted as well.3 big flops-Rohit,dhawan and raina.Are they just going to keep on continuing to put pressure on kohli and dhoni? Its too much of pressure on them. Selectors need to have a serious talk with those 3 duds of India batting. Though its late for change, Rahane is a better option in place of vulnerable raina.

vkumar_086
on March 27, 2016, 18:05 GMT

Aus & India always bring their A game when they play against each other...Ind vs Aus matches are much interesting than boring Ind vs Pak...sorry Aussie team, you have placed in tough group, between India & Aus, one team has to go home...you played well...India & Aussie players are nothing against each other...playing in IPL since from 8 years together...(exciting to watch Smith & Dhoni in same team)..sorry Aussie team once again...but you won my heart by playing tough...good luck for future tours

Junaid Alam
on March 27, 2016, 18:04 GMT

From a pakistani fan, Kohli you are phenomenal even when you are not in form always pose a threat for the opponent In Every Game India won against Pak Kohli has been the difference even in the ODI india chased 330 against and every now and then praises for you. Whenever India chase Kohli remains the difference always

Mahmood_Siddiqui
on March 27, 2016, 18:04 GMT

Kholi was great but Aus bowling and field placement deserves ACU investigation. Last few overs were unAustralian and there was something fishy. Half trackers with no third man and fine leg up. Last ball a full toss. Not one but all three bowlers were having an "off session".

Ind vs. Bangladesh...3 wicket on last 3 balls. Two of them full toss deliveries.

Lady luck favoring India too much I reckon.

Unnikuttan
on March 27, 2016, 18:03 GMT

While chasing Mccullum 38 matches 1006. Kohli 19 matches 920

oldmonkfan
on March 27, 2016, 18:03 GMT

Well played virat!! how many of you think virat is better than sachin in limited overs cricket?! Virat is extremely talented, disciplined, and does not crumble in pressure situation!! And BD fans, you guys are just hilarious! keep posting conspiracy comments! Its so fun to read all of them!

Sagar_cricket_fanatic
on March 27, 2016, 18:02 GMT

Congratulations to India!! Virat absolutely the best in the world! I am surprised by Steve Smith not bowling Adam Zampa more when Yuvraj was batting and perhaps missed a trick!

Eric Trueman
on March 27, 2016, 18:02 GMT

Virat kohli!! what a champion player and Character!! Almost single handedly won the match for India and yet, in post match presentation ,says its a team effort.

He is not legend in the making, He is already a legend!!

Akbar Khattak
on March 27, 2016, 18:02 GMT

@c.knightknight yes truely enjoyed it. Wathing sir vk bating is always a pleasure, have not seen any one playing so well under pressure. The passion he has to b the best is commendable. But I still believe that if india has to win this cup other batters will also have to perform. Example is new Zealand game. Well done kohli u r the star. A pakistani fan

sanjyot47
on March 27, 2016, 18:01 GMT

One of the best innings, the game has ever witnessed..!

cvenka
on March 27, 2016, 18:01 GMT

I would have very much liked India giving guard of honour to Watson whose career ended today. But in India's favour they dont know whether it would have been the last match since if Australia had won today his career would have prolonged to one to three games further. Anyhow I salute watson for his great allround capabilities & he was truly the top allrounder during his era. I also loved his aggresive approach while playing. Love him to see in action in IPL shortly

cricketsubh
on March 27, 2016, 18:01 GMT

T20 need different types of bowlers Hazelwood count nil more test bowlers then t20,bowlers u can't bowl line and length in t20 cricket look at nehera bhumra bravo maclenighan Russell they don't bowl same bowl every time like Australian bowlers and 2 thing Australia miss second spinner in this tournament they should have pick Boyce or Hogg picking agar is a massive gamble and fulkner should improve his bowling Australia should not give final overs bowling job to fulkner he is too predictable bowl batsman like predictable bowling and pick 4 regular bowlers like India Australia pick to many all-rounder's in the team best t20 11 for Australia in future matches warner.khawaja.smith.Maxwell.berly.marsh/fulkner .peter handscomb(wk).stark.Cummins.barendoff.zampa.

lucky666
on March 27, 2016, 18:00 GMT

How many time FLAT TRACK kings will keep putting pressure on Kohli. Someone has to start taking calls on Sharma & Dhawan presence...

OracleMagus
on March 27, 2016, 18:00 GMT

Virat has indeed Matured into a perfect cricketer. One man against the mighty Aussies. The rest of the batsmen tried their best to make India Loose. None other than MSD offered any support to Virat and still he battled it out alone and took India across the finish line. Hats off to one of the finest batsman in the current generation. Well done Virat. You are indeed a blessing to team India. Cheers!

sharrenstone
on March 27, 2016, 18:00 GMT

Australia shows the entire world how bad they are in T20 and the guys just cant bowl yorkers in the end. Also they have been unable to trap kohli in his areas of weakness. Anyways india played better cricket today and australian inexperienced showed when they just needed to save 13 runs per over run rate. But mind you the same kohli and company struggles in fast and bouncy tracks where there is something for fast bowlers. bring on juicy and fast track and kohli is gone for 10, 5, 13 and 0.

Southiesaar
on March 27, 2016, 17:59 GMT

Congratulations, India. Take a bow, King Virata.

Ani.Indian
on March 27, 2016, 17:58 GMT

Kohli silenced johnson, and over confident aussie (and some other nations) supporters on this forum on behalf of Entire India!!
All Hail Kohli......

Hindh_88
on March 27, 2016, 17:58 GMT

Kohli u beauty.. What a win for India...

DeepakPIncha
on March 27, 2016, 17:58 GMT

The difference between ABD and VK is more clear now. One hardly scores under pressure and other hardly misses to score under pressure

Its official. Kohli is bigger than Sachin when it comes to winning the match.

headleyy
on March 27, 2016, 17:57 GMT

Neither of the Australian closers was good enough for such a big job.

Jay Thakar
on March 27, 2016, 17:57 GMT

One man show...VIRAT the name says it all ... infinite!

Teodorick V Antonio
on March 27, 2016, 17:57 GMT

I have to agree in one of the comments that bringing Warner down the order is a failure. Warner and Finch is the original openers for Australia. Khawaja can go 3 as he is familiar with that position. Too many uncertainties in the Australian side, bringing Ashton and Zampa to India as duo spinner but are not used well. I think Zampa should have bowl more overs. I feel sorry for Agar, after that one over, he is not picked again. Anyways, well done to Kholi, a very special player.

Anand_Mounaswamy
on March 27, 2016, 17:57 GMT

Wow.. Kohli you are simply Outstanding.. What a genius you are.. the calculated risks you have taken has paid off impeccably.. that's out-of-the-world.. Great batting display.. Australians are humbled time and again.. Way to go Team India.. You have silenced many.. It will take a while to see their comments here..

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 17:57 GMT

Hate us but you can't beat us... Champ stuff Mr. Virat GOD Kohli :)

cricfan57779427
on March 27, 2016, 17:57 GMT

BD this is how you play till end and chersih only when you win. BD fans don't even think your team can be a rival to Indian team. More the hate comments from BD fans more we enjoy.

brusselslion
on March 27, 2016, 17:56 GMT

A quote by Barry Davies (English football commentater) about a Maradona goal can equally be applied to Kohli's innings: "You have to say that was magnificent". He has proved himself the best ODI/T20 batsman in the world. If England can him early in the semi, they have a good chance otherwise I fear the worst.

Cricster1
on March 27, 2016, 17:56 GMT

For the viewer's question 2 days ago, ABD's versatility or Gayle's power, I thought another choice should have been Kohli's magic and he is proving me right again and again. He has played 2 great match winning innings in this world cup. Looks more like Ind vs. NZ final

magnetic_loco_WAP4
on March 27, 2016, 17:56 GMT

My friends BMike & Electric no predictions from you guys?

zain.k
on March 27, 2016, 17:56 GMT

King Kholi - the best chaser in the world indeed! Later watson, better luck in the IPL OR BIG BASH.

bikasv
on March 27, 2016, 17:56 GMT

I know Yuvraj will not get any praises, but not only he bowled very well, he batted quite good too. He was injured, but his strike rate was well above 100 and he stuck with the wicket to cement the inning for India.

vkumar_086
on March 27, 2016, 17:56 GMT

When Sunil Gavaskar the harsh critic praises you, you have something achieved...that is Kohli for all...never seen such a great player since I started to watch cricket when I was 6 years old in 1996...past 6 years since he started to play, countless matches he won for India, that no player matches him...take a bow Kohli, world's BEST PLAYER right now irrespective of the format...this is the difference between great player & greatest...where are the fans who are expected that India will be knocked out today??? Mushi & Mahmadulla, this is how you finish the match for your team...

rishmoh
on March 27, 2016, 17:55 GMT

awesome batting by kohli..

BadGal SaRa
on March 27, 2016, 17:55 GMT

Why is no one talking about the upcoming west indies vs India clash?

Mahim362
on March 27, 2016, 17:55 GMT

It is Kholi, Kholi, Kholi.....innings to remember. looking ahead...two more games for India....time for Rahane instead of Dhawan..and another batman instead of injured Yuvraj. hope the selection is bold. Ashwin needs to change line of attack. Dhoni to use spinners for full quota. Pandaya is too predictable and is not the death bowler.

ramana1
on March 27, 2016, 17:55 GMT

kohli, yes too smart, waited for end of Watson. punched next

espncricinfomobile
on March 27, 2016, 17:55 GMT

Salute to MSD and V.K.The ultimate run machine with cool MS took INDIA to the glory

Rahul Srk
on March 27, 2016, 17:55 GMT

Brilliant innings by Kohli under pressure. I think too much dependency on Kohli. Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan and Raina have been give enough chances now. One of them needs to be replaced. Swap Rahane for Rohit. I don't think that balance of the team will be affected. Any way Rohit isn't contributing in the field as well - an average fielder. Yuvaraj is aging and it can be seen. He twisted his ankle today and looks like he needs replacing as well ! Hope he recovers from Ankle sprain soon ! Those ankles healing isn't quick and need time to recover !

cool2cool
on March 27, 2016, 17:55 GMT

After NZ match, Pak was going to thrash India, didn't happen. Then BD was going to thrash India, didn't happen. Then Aus was going to thrash India, didn't happen.

Husnaj
on March 27, 2016, 17:55 GMT

Dhoni and India should worry about the top order. Dhavan is not producing any good score to be there. Why don't they try with Rahane.

JPK1964
on March 27, 2016, 17:54 GMT

Just seen a "CRICKETING GOD" in action. I have seen many chases won by this GENIUS but nothing I mean nothing better than what he's played for the Indian Nation. Difficult not to love this Cricketing God period. Love from Sri Lanka <3

Hariom Dahad
on March 27, 2016, 17:54 GMT

What a come back by Indian Bowlers... WHAT A RECOVERY BY INDIAN BATSMAN... those criticize that India has Only Kohli.. I would simply say.. He is more than enough for u...

cvenka
on March 27, 2016, 17:54 GMT

I have predicted in my facebook page (even before the super 10 started) that India NewZealand, West Indies & South Africa would qualify for the semifinals. Alas! I was right only for 75% as England took SA's place. It would have been 50% had this man, kohli had a off day today... what a man! my respects to kohli is growing match after match. If he bats like this no need for other batsmen! Only kohli & dhoni are enough. for other slots, fill them with bowlers or allrounders. No need for NPA's (non performing assets like rohit, dhawan, raina & yuvi).

SaneHead
on March 27, 2016, 17:54 GMT

One thing has become clear through this tournament, Cricinfo. Ian Chappell and Mahela Jayawardene are superb analysts - accurate, astute, fearless, forthright ad engrossing. They are like Kohli and Dhoni on song. Please do whatever it takes to keep this partnership alive.

Cric__Dude
on March 27, 2016, 17:54 GMT

Take a bow Virat Kohli. You are a bloody genius man. The only reason I can find not to hate our openers is that they allow you to make such innings. I don't think there will be any changes in the playing 11 in the semi-final match, except in case of Yuvi's injury. Personally within the squad we have, I would like Negi (for Dhawan) to open with Rohit. In case Yuvi can't play the semis, Rahane should replace Yuvi and open with Negi. Rohit should bat at 4 then. The sad thing within the team (wrt to some players) is that how are they not able to improve despite seeing Virat day in and day out. I don't have anymore words for you, Virat.

Shuja Rehman
on March 27, 2016, 17:54 GMT

No matter what the result India Australia rivalry remains one of the best in the game at the moment...Feel a little sorry for them today as they remain one of the fierce competitors and professional cricket teams...They missed a bowler like starc today at the death...without him their bowling looks quite vulnerable...Virat Kohli well i won't say much coz everyone has pretty much showered him with all the praises that he deserves

Afgun_Mujahid
on March 27, 2016, 17:53 GMT

Well done team India congrats now WI should be easier for India as they have good spinning attack which WI will struggle aa they lost the match to Afghanistan mainly coz of spinners so good luck, I am sure india will be in final insha Allah. from Afghan fan.

Cricistan
on March 27, 2016, 17:53 GMT

Hope India win the WC. love from Pakistan.

R.A.B
on March 27, 2016, 17:53 GMT

It looked like both batman and superman were batting at the crease. Wow.

UglyIndian
on March 27, 2016, 17:52 GMT

While Kohli did very well to go after Faulkner and come out on top, Coulter-Nile just bowled rubbish length to make it remarkably easy for India in the end. Just goes to show, if you can't bowl yorkers, you're in for a hiding to nothing.
Just compare this rubbish to the 'yorkers at will' bowled by Jordan and Stokes to shut Sri Lanka out. Also, I think Faulkner got flattered by Pakistan's ineptitude. You can't just keep bowling back-of-the-hand stuff from a long run up, and expect to get away with it every time. I am glad he got showed his place as well.

Satheesh Grandhi
on March 27, 2016, 17:51 GMT

king of chases ... kohli

Indocriclover
on March 27, 2016, 17:51 GMT

I'm all ears for those saying India is one man team- Kohli, though today and against BD bowlers bowled their heart out. But you know something, Kohli> AUS. 11 men can't compete against 1 kohli.

SaeedLala
on March 27, 2016, 17:51 GMT

Well batted Kohli but i think if Aussie had half decent spinners like NZ did then india would have lost easily.

SultanofSwing007
on March 27, 2016, 17:50 GMT

Congratulations IND for the awesome victory over AUS. And for being the only SC team to make it to the Semis! No words to describe the sensational Kohli, he is truly one of a kind. a rare Kohinoor, cherish him!! Best wishes for success all the way to the finals and hope you guys bring the cup to the SC. from a BAN fan!

Afgun_Mujahid
on March 27, 2016, 17:50 GMT

Congratulations to team India superb inning from Kohli he toke his team to the winning position. Now into semi against WI, well Afghanistan beat them by applying spinners and i believe India will do better against WI so good luck from an Afghan fan...

spiritwithin
on March 27, 2016, 17:50 GMT

after this loss what will be the excuses of aus fan?aus lost bcoz they fielded 2rd string side or bcoz aus does not care about T20?..there were lots of excuses when india blanked aus 3-0 recently..and to all those fans who were too arrogant to put aus already in the semifinal even before the match this result is a tight slap to all of you.
Well done Kohli,you are the best limited over player and nobody is close to you.There is Kohli and then followed by ABD and then there is the rest..thats how the actual situation is...same will be the case in test very soon...

cricketsubh
on March 27, 2016, 17:50 GMT

Inexperienced bowling cost them Australia this match they miss stark and Cummins and miss second spinner also this pitch is very good for bating against fast bowlers very easy to bat but against spinners its little bit difficult hope Australia learn from this experience and try to build settle t20 team you can pick 15 players and sent them to play world cup and hope for winning the tournament they need to take t20 cricket seriously now nxt world cup in Australia this is a young team hope they now understand t20 cricket in subcontinent if you wants to win u must play 2 spinners in the team Australia team is totally imbalance they play navil at 8 that's why they don't pick another spinner and picking Hazelwood hesthings tye for world cup is a big mistake they should have picked bolinger tait hogg more experience players bad selection and lack of understanding cost this series for Australia hope they learn I think Australia should appoint Ricky pointing as a t20 coach he coach Mumbai Indi

Nampally
on March 27, 2016, 17:50 GMT

What a majestic demonstration of controlled aggression by Virat Kohli which carried India into the Semi final! It was one of the best knocks against highly touted Aussie Team. Kohli literally tore Faulkner & Coulter-Niles to shreds during their final 2 overs bowled to Kohli. Never have I seen such awesome power, grace & total mastery of the Bowling. I can only recall the great Gary Sobers who could have matched it. Simply a superb knock! Kohli got more than 50% of the total at a S/R of 160. Kohli is literally the one man Indian batting! On a day when even Ashwin faltered in bowling, Dhoni had to go to Yuvraj & Hardik to rescue the bowling. Nehra was the only other bowler who was accurate. But the bowlers got their job done to restrict the Aussies to 160 after 54 run opening stand in 4 overs! Yuvraj & Dhoni batted well in their supporting role for India. Watson did well both with bat & ball in his farewell T20 appearance. Congrats Kohli & India for a Great Win against all odds.

Warlock786
on March 27, 2016, 17:50 GMT

It is time that India shove Sachin aside and make an Idol of Kohli at home to worship

Kohli is a a man of Steel.. Big match temparment is absolutely phenomenonal. Very few players are able to perform like this when the chips are down... I am truly impressed... From a South African. Well played virat

cluelessjan1
on March 27, 2016, 17:49 GMT

Warner was a terrible failure for the aussies. he didn't play in big bash. shouldn't have played him. Ashton Agar would have been valuable in the side.

cool2cool
on March 27, 2016, 17:49 GMT

@bmike Mate, what are your predictions for the semis?

android_user
on March 27, 2016, 17:49 GMT

australia defeated by one man named "Kohli" . we r lucky to have kohli in Indian team. still worry about other batsman raina, Dhawan & Rohit. if Indian could manage to get one more batsman like 80%kohli, india will be undefeated ..

ramana1
on March 27, 2016, 17:48 GMT

I hurt . actually I don't like kohli, but as a chasing master I Love him .

ABHISHEKJO
on March 27, 2016, 17:48 GMT

Master Blaster stupendous Innings by Kohli, superb played India, all the best for semifinals

Iceman29
on March 27, 2016, 17:47 GMT

Thank you shane Watson sir for the entertainment..best allrounder after kallis..gud luck for your future..wishes from ind

DipanjanMitra
on March 27, 2016, 17:47 GMT

Virat is the new master blaster for India. Undoubtedly so, after tonight's knock. And he is growing by the day. Wonder if there is going to be a bowler one day to challenge Kohli, and we can again relish and cherish some fighting moments like we used to see between Warne and Sachin.

krrishk
on March 27, 2016, 17:47 GMT

Though INDIA WON am bit worried with openers and Raina , need changes after this tournament

Kester Monrose
on March 27, 2016, 17:47 GMT

West Indies will demolish y'all in the semis. Enjoy this victory over Australia while it lasts. hahaha

cricfan57779427
on March 27, 2016, 17:47 GMT

Great win by India especially Kohli. Though India openers failed badly Kohli, Yuvi and Dhoni helped and stayed calm. India openers form is really a concern what ever is the result.

Farhan Ali
on March 27, 2016, 17:47 GMT

Bangladeshi fans are more disappointed than the Aussie fans. This is how far the bigotry went.

nbgmail
on March 27, 2016, 17:46 GMT

Questioning M Waugh (and other selectors) and all his talk during the bigbash regarding performances making a difference for selection - all I have seen is same old faces and when it came down to it guys like Zampa don't get backed in by captain and Tye not even getting a game?

Vaishak13
on March 27, 2016, 17:46 GMT

I m someone who's very neutral,and I feel bad for Australia bowing out.Really wanted to see them in d semis.But I guess this is a victory over all the Sri Lankan and Bangladesh fans who wanted to see India lose.There were a lot of Pakistani supporters who wanted to see India win.Now if India lose in any further stage,the others wil be back among the comments.

HDG1978
on March 27, 2016, 17:46 GMT

Perfect match with India winning and the 3 duds(Sharma,Dhawan and Raina) failing.Hats off to Virat Kohli. With 39 runs required of the last 3 overs,it nearly seemed curtains for India. Kohli with 82* scored more than half the runs. Time the selectors realized that the 3 am referring to repeatedly are just not good enough and force changes to the Indian XI down the captain's throat. India winning matters and consistent performers not failures should be part of the team.

ManeshT
on March 27, 2016, 17:45 GMT

What a game, Virat we salute you sir! To all the haters...pure class won the game for India today so please dont say India were lucky!!

Faisal Fas
on March 27, 2016, 17:45 GMT

hats of again kohli and congrats india

maddy20
on March 27, 2016, 17:45 GMT

I have seen so much thrash talk about India on these forums this morning, how they struggled against BD and how the Aussies will steamroll us. The funniest part was BD fans that lost 4 off 4 calling India overrated. Well have a slice of humble pie tonight and cry yourselves to sleep! The favorites are back in the reckoning!

nbgmail
on March 27, 2016, 17:45 GMT

Questioning M Waugh (and other selectors) and all his talk during the bigbash regarding performances making a difference for selection - all I have seen is same old faces and when it came down to it guts ike Zampa don't get backed in by captain and Tye not even getting a game?

CNTOWER
on March 27, 2016, 17:45 GMT

Good win for India. Australians bowled poorly at the depth overs when the pressure was on Indians at one stage. Rarely see such poor cricket by Australians. Wish India good luck with the rest of the games.

H-Shakil
on March 27, 2016, 17:44 GMT

Respect to Kholi from Pakistan. A special innings by a specail player.

CricLoverBD2016
on March 27, 2016, 17:44 GMT

Salute, Salute, Salute & Endless salute! Should I explain where or for whom my salutes go to? Virat Kohli, I'm putting you with the same place of some Legends of cricket: Bradman, V Richards, G Sobers, Sachin and Lara. May be some fans will disagree, but I don't care! Until I die, I will love to see this man with a cricket bat. Heartiest love & respect for you Virat Kohli. What can be more pleasant of seeing someone applying the best classic show to send the cricket ball over the rope in such a pressure situation. Ohhhh, I'm loosing my words to explain! There is no appropriate word in the dictionary to explain this beauty!

Endless love & respect from a BD Fan.

Brambletonian
on March 27, 2016, 17:44 GMT

What an unbelievable performance..Kohli....you da man !!!

Anand_Mounaswamy
on March 27, 2016, 17:44 GMT

Wow.. Kohli you are simply Outstanding.. What a genius you are.. the calculated risks you have taken has paid off impeccably.. that's out-of-the-world.. Great batting display.. Australians are humbled time and again.. Way to go Team India.. You have silenced many.. It will take a while to see their comments here..

DeepakPIncha
on March 27, 2016, 17:44 GMT

Mitchell Johnson you should keep your mouth shut or I should say your hand still (thanks for the tweet though this time). Don't invoke the 12th commandment by intentionally provoking 'Virat kohli'

kkesavan78
on March 27, 2016, 17:43 GMT

Move over Sachin.... Kohli is the God of cricket.

shoaib.hassan306
on March 27, 2016, 17:43 GMT

Respecr for kohli from pakistan. He.is real match winner and can make india champ on his own.
Go kohli go. From pak fan.

arun.cric.fan
on March 27, 2016, 17:43 GMT

I believed him when he said he couldnt hit sixes... liar Kohli. That stunning six off Faulkner was just super special...

Jim Jim
on March 27, 2016, 17:43 GMT

Kholi is Crazy Good, was an ultra arrogant player not too many liked all to an amazing batsman who has won respect from all including myself who never thought it possible , but what a mature player he has turned out to be , sorry indian fans but at the moment he is the one man indian batting lineup , ashwin is the only bowler of any substance, however not a match winner , india were the favorites going on to this tournament however, only reason india is in the semi's is because and only because of kholi , sensational player

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 17:43 GMT

@rohanblue... best comment ever... absolutely true

Rajashekhar Donthoju
on March 27, 2016, 17:43 GMT

World class batting from Kohli...Key to success was his two important partnerships with Yuvi

Atleast give credit where it's due as much we respect budding BD players. Respect begets Respect.

vicky584
on March 27, 2016, 17:42 GMT

what a game .... virat, no words to talk abt his performance... Mr cool who stitched a wonderful partnership .. these guys are hungry for win ... if this team continues the momentum ... then we may see another 2011 here .... congrats to dhoni and his men

avengerr
on March 27, 2016, 17:42 GMT

Zampa 2 overs for 11 and wasn't bowled out. Australia persisting with average cricketers like Coulter Nile who have nothing special. Just bits and pieces players.

Ali Khan
on March 27, 2016, 17:42 GMT

Eat,Sleep,Play and Conquer... Virat ....the King of Cricket.

cool2cool
on March 27, 2016, 17:41 GMT

@niaz Are the boys reached back home? Convey our big thanks to them.

arun.cric.fan
on March 27, 2016, 17:41 GMT

Imperious royal regal legendary kohli... wow man. King Kohli rocks...

sachin_vvsfan
on March 27, 2016, 17:40 GMT

Still not happy with our openers. They eat up the power plays only to settle in to get out early and put too much pressure on the middle order.They should try out Pandya as opener in place of Rohit/Dhawan. he plays fearless and could give us some needed runs in the power play. If kohli was out in the middle overs it would have been over for us today.

Wow Virat you beauty. What a player. A true champion. The BEST player in the world, period. All the haters move away. The champions are back. WI, ENG, NZ move away. Team India are back. They will get only better from here. This will be a massive confidence booster. India have proved they are the best Asian team. Very happy and proud of these boys.

avengerr
on March 27, 2016, 17:39 GMT

why wasn't zampa bowled out?

SaMelba
on March 27, 2016, 17:39 GMT

Kohli's innings summed up: good batting against atrocious bowling. Despite an Australian collapse due to bad decision making and poor umpiring, despite atrocious death bowling by Australia, India still only managed to scrape across the line. Well done India, have fun getting knocked out of your tournament by England next match.

Rahul Nethaji
on March 27, 2016, 17:39 GMT

Where is Mitchell Johnson to comment

John_Mil
on March 27, 2016, 17:39 GMT

Superb batting by Virat.He has proved it again that he is the Finest batsmen.No words to say on his temperament.He is the fabulous batsmen in terms of any format.Superb Kholi.Fantastic and congrats.I believe still Opening partnership needs to improve.Needs to be aggressive and steady.There still 2 more games left out in this tournament to capture the World Cup.I understand opening batsman are trying to give chances to other players but not for all the games.They should not give burdens to the upcoming batsman.They need to stand for sometime with good run rate in order to dominate any opponents.Raina & Yuvi also needs to have some more runs on their end with good run rate according to the conditions.Yuvi should be given a chance for bowling again.Best of Luck India for the 2016 World cup title winner.......Reg..Britto

Coolcapricorn
on March 27, 2016, 17:39 GMT

For those who take pleasure in putting India down at every opportunity & expected us to be knocked out of the WC today, really sorry to disappoint you! We salute you MSD & VK!

Abhishek Pattnaik
on March 27, 2016, 17:38 GMT

India won , because India is simply a better t20 team than Australia.. I hope people get that now .

HadesLogic
on March 27, 2016, 17:38 GMT

This is how you win a match Bd!! Learn from the best and be humble!!

Teodorick V Antonio
on March 27, 2016, 17:37 GMT

Well done to Indian Team, especially Kholi, very special innings he had played in. India is very fortunate to have player like him. He is so different from Dhawan, Sharma and Raina, especially Yuvraj. Kholi is the real difference between both teams in today's game.

cricket1genie
on March 27, 2016, 17:37 GMT

what a game...kohli take a bow. Best batsman in the word by a large distance. You know he is when sunil gavaskar, a harshest critic, praises you. Hes not easy to please..

GaneshDurai
on March 27, 2016, 17:37 GMT

Kohli a True Genius and a Legend
As i mentioned earlier, If there is a team to beat Aus on will, It is India.
Once again proved after recent Aus series. One thing for sure, Kohli will be remembered by Aussies more than Sachin

Assertive-Indian
on March 27, 2016, 17:37 GMT

Let me tell you one thing: India and Australia are very competitive teams, and, therefore, play hard cricket against each other. But, as individuals, have nothing against each other. I feel bad for Aussie team because it is surely the second best or the third best team in this tournament. But because it was grouped with so many good teams, it has to go home. I bet, if it were in the other group, it would have made to the semis.

narsinat0r
on March 27, 2016, 17:37 GMT

Kohli Kohli Kohli you are truly a master class!! proud to have you in the team

Dev Rahul
on March 27, 2016, 17:37 GMT

And the run machine Mr Virat seals the deal.....haters please stick your head in the ground and see u at Mumbai..hee haw

Win predictor never lies, it knew Kohli was at the crease!!!! What a win for India!!!! Thanks for your wishes Bangla fans!!!!

Geordie_Online
on March 27, 2016, 17:37 GMT

Virat Kohli and M S Dhoni are the only two batsmen in the side who are performing. Almost like a two man batting unit right now.

Honey0701
on March 27, 2016, 17:36 GMT

Think what would have been if Virat didn't have scored!!! Dhawan, Raina

Safa04
on March 27, 2016, 17:36 GMT

so proud of u kohliii....what a class....absolute legend

Jack Bright
on March 27, 2016, 17:36 GMT

Kohli you beauty what an inning. He showed to the world today that T20 is not only about bashing or power hitting.

Rutul Gandhi
on March 27, 2016, 17:36 GMT

Masterclass Kohli!!! Take a bow, man! And Thank You for the Birthday gift.

rohanblue
on March 27, 2016, 17:36 GMT

virat kohli are u even human????????? how can u do this????? u freaking god﻿

Martin -
on March 27, 2016, 17:35 GMT

Bye, bye, Australia.

R.A.B
on March 27, 2016, 17:35 GMT

Salute to kohli - the greatest finisher ever in history of cricket

jb633
on March 27, 2016, 17:35 GMT

Omg what an entirely predictable result and I can do without the pathetic hero worship of the commentators. Aus have always been a very poor t20 nation, you ask the aussie people about this and they won't be losing sleep over it. It seriously grates me listening to the most ridiculous commentary. Good batting by kholi but that aus attack is tin pot. India will win it now, but given its t20 the world will have forgotten by the morning after. Never honestly heard worse commentary in any sport than at the end of this game.

cool2cool
on March 27, 2016, 17:34 GMT

@jahjd_omar Please wish similarly during semis also.

vijay1111
on March 27, 2016, 17:34 GMT

amazing and outstanding kohli

cluelessjan1
on March 27, 2016, 17:34 GMT

well done india. steven smith is still not a goid t20 captain. he should have bowled zampa who had 6 dots in 12 balls. semis would be gayle v kholi.

Indocriclover
on March 27, 2016, 17:34 GMT

@TAKE-IT-EASY Yeah! 1 billion people and this is the Indian team. Time to eat your over rated words baby.

Assertive-Indian
on March 27, 2016, 17:34 GMT

I ask all the ill wishers of India from our neighbourhood to go and take a hike! India has won, and now go and have a drink, so that you can absorb the shock.

Vivek Tiwari
on March 27, 2016, 17:34 GMT

in my view worst captain of australia steven smith

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 17:33 GMT

So the Bangladesh and pakistan fans who were hoping for some vicarious pleasure from an australian win were disappointed once again. It must be really sad to see their own teams beaten by india and now India also entering the semi finals. But better luck next time and keep up the spirit of relying on others if you cant do the job.

Steve Smith did a blunder knowing Virat is the best in chasing especially when it is a flat track though it is a little on the slower side. Even Aussie would have added another 15 runs, it wouldn't matter since kohli and Dhoni goes into top gear
India is absolutely garabage team except for captain, bowlers and Kohli

DhoniManiac
on March 27, 2016, 17:33 GMT

Take a bow champion! Take a bow!! Another magical knock from Virat!!!!

RahulWise
on March 27, 2016, 17:32 GMT

Kholi, take a bow. IMO, you are greater than SRT, you won so many matches for India, more than SRT.

avengerr
on March 27, 2016, 17:30 GMT

That's what you get for picking average bowlers like coulter nile. Faulkner is already done. poor cricket by Australia.

Inferno02
on March 27, 2016, 17:29 GMT

I thought the game was won after 17 overs. I expected Faulkner to be the best bowler on show and even he went for runs. Really feel disappointed.
Have to really hand it to Kohli though, what a knock. The best thing about the innings was that he stayed in and took the game deep and by that time, he began to time the ball so well that he made this pitch look like the one where England chased down 230.
Well, I hope the Kiwis win the cup now that Aussies are out.

DrMeister
on March 27, 2016, 17:29 GMT

Bangladesh what have you done? Lucky India - basically a one man team with good pawns

Desiboi80
on March 27, 2016, 17:29 GMT

Absolute best player ever, Kohli!!!!!!!

ProteaBoy
on March 27, 2016, 17:28 GMT

said it before,SA Eng WI and Aus dont have bowlers to defend a total. too many seamers. Kohli is the best run chaser I have ever seen

SAURAVJAIN
on March 27, 2016, 17:28 GMT

Australia should learn that they are playing against that great nation where people even criticise Ashwin,Jadeja and Dhoni for one wrong ball or inning. Hashelwood and Faulkner are nowhere compared to India's class. James Faulkner has perished several games for his IPL team too.

bikasv
on March 27, 2016, 17:26 GMT

Amazing victory by India. But I feel sad for Watson. He's one of the greatest T20 all rounder. He's bidding adieu the cricket with a defeat.

Aus4eva
on March 27, 2016, 17:24 GMT

@jahid_omar see how big boys play...

Abhinandan Bhattacharyya
on March 27, 2016, 17:24 GMT

wow....kohli is genius...

Warlock786
on March 27, 2016, 17:24 GMT

Well Done Virat, you are the only player in the Indian team !

bikasv
on March 27, 2016, 17:23 GMT

@TAKE-IT-EASY: 4 in 6 balls. You're saying?

Hariom Dahad
on March 27, 2016, 17:23 GMT

MAKE THE WAY.. FAVORATES ARE BACK... CHAMPIONS ARE BACK...

Niaz62833
on March 27, 2016, 17:20 GMT

India's semi is gifted by BD. If they didn't choked in last 3 ball than India had to go.

VinodGupte
on March 27, 2016, 17:18 GMT

India all the way. India looks impossible to beat now. First WI and then Eng. T20, here we grab you.

alcapoon
on March 27, 2016, 17:15 GMT

Regardless of the result great batting by kohli.

take-it-easy
on March 27, 2016, 17:08 GMT

1 billion people and this is the indian team, so over rated. Trust me Afgan team can beat them so easily.

ELECTRIC_LOCO_WAP4_IS_DELUDED
on March 27, 2016, 17:07 GMT

I trust Mahatma Shri Dhoni and King Kohli more than anyone in this team. Others don't put confidence in me.

CricLoverBD2016
on March 27, 2016, 17:06 GMT

@labib009
I'm a Bangladeshi. I cried when BD lost to India. Yes, BCCI has lost the beauty it had in the time of Dalmia. Yes, the attitude is far far different between the legend SRT & Kohli. But you know what? Kohli is definitely a highly talented cricketer, he is the real beauty with a cricket bat. That's what I can't stop loving. Yes, respect comes from inside, But my eyes are enjoying as well. Hate never can bring any solution, hate earns hate. Love earns love in return. Now a days, it seems like a war going between the fans of BD & Ind. Look, this is just increasing & increasing. Both are criticizing each other in a regular basis, which is really bad for the game. Younger always deserve the courage & appreciation from the older. In cricketing sense, BD is younger & Ind is older. Lets do something new. Let the elders hate & criticize us as much as they can, but lets pay our love & respect to them. If this happen, the scenario is gonna be change, I can bet!

Apollobiswas
on March 27, 2016, 17:06 GMT

Yes NZ playa well in the tournament and waiting at final for opposition i believe todays winner gonna be chsmpion

rajcan
on March 27, 2016, 17:06 GMT

It is good to see Kholi as one of the consistent batsman and able to play Pace and Spin equally.

There are other batsman, they can be destructive when the pitch and bowling suit them. And other times, they can get out with single digits and with ducks.

I would rate Kholi above any other batsmen currently playing, because of his consistency.

India who have billions of population, to be fare for everyone, BCCI should bring a rule. batsmen should retire at age of 32 regardless what form they are in. That will give opportunity for youngsters to get into the playing XI.

It is like a rule for Presidency in USA, only two term you can serve. If BCCI doesn't have rule like that, you can only have one Tendulkar. He is a great batsman, for some he is a cricketing god, no denial in that. But he got more than his fair share, started very early playing for XI, but unfairly prolonged his career at the end to complete his century list where as many great in other countries retired early.

Brambletonian
on March 27, 2016, 17:05 GMT

Why only Raina and Dhawan?? what about "talented" nohit Sharma

Apollobiswas
on March 27, 2016, 17:02 GMT

Even the win predictor lies when india plays

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 17:02 GMT

cmon..Aussie.. don't give up. go Aussie go . ...

Apollobiswas
on March 27, 2016, 17:02 GMT

India sacrifices two world cup for yuvi

JAHID_OMAR
on March 27, 2016, 17:01 GMT

Common Aussies trash this over-hyped mediocre team which have all media super stars.. wishes from BD

ajcdada
on March 27, 2016, 16:57 GMT

things looking bleak for team India...tl

Keithpandey
on March 27, 2016, 16:57 GMT

Dhawan is past bring in Robin Shreyesh or Mayank. Manish Pandey can take Raina position. I see some spark in Pandya. Nohit can be used in 6.
Shardul Thakur is very potent bowler for odi.
I see Rishabh Pant very dynamic opener n wk. We need Kallis as our coach. Get someone hard-working as Heath Strick as bowling coach please get him at any cost. Rest is all good.

Sukrit Chaudhary
on March 27, 2016, 16:51 GMT

I am praying for India to win but have gotta bad feeling.

ELECTRIC_LOCO_WAP4_IS_DELUDED
on March 27, 2016, 16:50 GMT

Yuvraj just needs to go for broke and release pressure on Kohli.

micklem
on March 27, 2016, 16:49 GMT

If Australia lose today, ie simply bcz they did't played two spinners, First of all they selected only one quality spinner zampa, second they did'nt give opportunity to agar, atleast they should have played him today, Poor tactics..

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 16:47 GMT

i hope india lose today saying from my sad heart because that way there will be so many questions abt dhawan and raina inclusion in the team if india wins then we have face these two failures again which i dont wanna see really...

VinodGupte
on March 27, 2016, 16:47 GMT

Raina is as much a cricketer as trump is a subtle orator. He ha nothing to offer to cricket. He had nothing to offer since 2011 quarter final against AUS. Just riding the coat tails of Dhoni and saying yessir to Dhoni.

trinal
on March 27, 2016, 16:47 GMT

Dhoni trying to justify dhawan's form, for more than 2 years, we the public knows he has limited talent and show his minus always , but how shastri , Dhoni , and other coaches keeping him in the elevens throughout the year. here we have lot of potentially talented players. India has the reason to lose this match , and Dhoni knows it.

Akbar Khattak
on March 27, 2016, 16:46 GMT

Seems like bye bye for india unless kohli plays a blinder.

CricLoverBD2016
on March 27, 2016, 16:46 GMT

Yuvi is struggling a lot with his injury in the middle. We saw the same thing happened with other players in many other matches. ICC should think wisely about the matter of taking runner when a batsman get injured. Really bad to see someone running between the wicket with injury, which can be much harmful for a long run.

By the way, as long as Yuvi batting, India will miss some runs, can be really effective to win this match.

Ammo666
on March 27, 2016, 16:45 GMT

The world's most legendary batting line up playing test against mighty AUS...

BanglaBandhu
on March 27, 2016, 16:43 GMT

Even before the yuvi injury, IND were about two overs behind the chase. What a bowling display from Shane Watson.

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 16:40 GMT

Yuvraj has been struggling since he came back. He has at best played a supporting role with an occasional big hit but is no longer even close to the destructive player he was a few years earlier. This is natural given that he is older and his reflexes not as good as before, so it really is up to the selectors to re-evaluate whether including him in the team to play the big hitter role is a reasonable expectation. To yuvraj's credit, he has played the supporting role quite well and has shown the courage and ability to stick it out on bowler friendly wickets.,

basusri133b
on March 27, 2016, 16:39 GMT

Another failure of our top three batsman. This could very well cost us the game. & Championship. Team India needs to seriously consider bringing in younger players from our under 19 squad. Dhawan & Raina need to go.

Kumar_cricket
on March 27, 2016, 16:38 GMT

I am tired of raina getting out for short ball .He is not top four batsmen in any format of cricket.He should be at 6 .

Northy1
on March 27, 2016, 16:37 GMT

@YVIVEKCB 50/50 chance, hardly very very lucky is it.

labib009
on March 27, 2016, 16:36 GMT

@CricLoverBD2016--- many Bangladeshis over the years have supported the Indian Cricket Team (obviously when they are not playing against BD). Though I did not support them but I always had respect for their team and board as well. But if u just see the current picture, u will surely find the reason why they lost that respect. I will just give u two examples : there was a gentleman named SACHIN RAMESH TENDULKAR in the field. Just compare his attitude with that of kohli... just picture a person of the stature of JAGMOHAN DALMIA in their board and compare him with srini. I think I have made my point. I do not get offended by their fans. Many fans from BD are no better. But they are fans. In a large population all the people are not always nice. But the current team and board are so far from their predecessors. Hatred is a strong word. I, like many others do not hate them, but respect comes from inside. Indian team and board has lost it. :(

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 16:35 GMT

i dont know why dhawan and rohit waste balls at the start..this is t20...no time to settle down..come for bat and slog all the balls for some quick runs instead getting out after wasting balls and no runs

RahulWise
on March 27, 2016, 16:34 GMT

@Sanjay Naidu, we rahane fans definately put team before a player, thats why we keep saying abt Dhawan. Did u watch his game ever properly? Do you think he has in him to survive?, forget abt him scoring. We need players who can play in all conditions, not just on flat tracks. Clearly Dhawan is not in this category. With repeated failures, Rohit too will fall under this category, if he doesnt score on this kind of pitches.

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 16:31 GMT

dhawan what a player ...lol

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 16:31 GMT

With the kind of top order we have, where dhawan fails almost all the time, rohit fails more often than not and raina is not unable to replicate the success he enjoyed early in his career, we are heavily reliant on kohli. It is unfortunate that despite the repeated failures of the top order, dhoni is still not willing to give rahane a decent run (the one off match against pakistan because dhawan developed a niggle doesn't count).

android_user
on March 27, 2016, 16:30 GMT

same song and same tune from india

VinodGupte
on March 27, 2016, 16:30 GMT

Suresh Raina - learning to play short deliveries at the cost of victories in international cricket for the past ten years. But Dhoni can't get enough of him. We will see him play for another decade at least. Utter useless waste of a batting spot.

cluelessjan1
on March 27, 2016, 16:30 GMT

oh boy oh. sharma, dharwan and raina. three school boys could have done better. as far as kholi is there india is in the game. hope he bats well.

Abhinandan Bhattacharyya
on March 27, 2016, 16:28 GMT

Raina's international career over....his not fit for international cricket anymore....

RahulWise
on March 27, 2016, 16:28 GMT

so many chances to Dhawan, so many. He hits one six, everyone says he is a class act, he can win matches blah blah. And Rohit, since the bangla tour, how many runs he scored? On flat tracks, every one scores, on pitches where there is something, many of the current 11 fails. I have wrote repetedly, Rahane has the game to survice and scrore quickly too. Only god can save the match now for us. Dhoni has to change his thinking !

Warlock786
on March 27, 2016, 16:27 GMT

Same story with the top 3 of India, this time there isn't even any express pace like it was Vs Pakistan. Not only does India not take advantage of the power play but they even get out. The only reason India has got this far is due to great captaincy and Virat. If you put Virat aside then the Indian performance is bare.

BeAHuman
on March 27, 2016, 16:27 GMT

Kohli can't do it all the time. Rohit never delivers when chasing. Shikar is inconsistent. Raina and yuvraj not in the best nick. So Dhoni should have picked rahane who is much more dependable. Also Dhoni made a mistake with his bowlers in power play. 160 is I feel 30 runs too many given Indias poor batting form.

rohanblue
on March 27, 2016, 16:25 GMT

looks like curtains for India, bye bye

alcapoon
on March 27, 2016, 16:25 GMT

Watching raina against a short ball is like watching charlie chaplin you just can't stop laughing.

Faisal Fas
on March 27, 2016, 16:23 GMT

happy to see raina if could be click.

Shuja Rehman
on March 27, 2016, 16:22 GMT

Dhawan and Sharma flatter to decieve again...time for a change at the top of the order...all down to Kohli once again

Koark
on March 27, 2016, 16:21 GMT

aus will win convincingly.....sorry ind....u have no chance!

alfaomega
on March 27, 2016, 16:20 GMT

That's what you get for sticking with out of form players in hope that they will come good. Not only did Dhawan and Rohit waste precious deliveries, but didn't even stick around to take advantage of staying at the crease so long. Instead they could have gone out hitting hard and getting the same runs in half the deliveries. With Yuvraj, Raina, Dhoni all out of form and and unreliable lower order, it's a tall task for India now. They really should have gone harder in the power play

winter8
on March 27, 2016, 16:19 GMT

The worst and the most stupid batsman of all time ...nohit sharma

Sanjay Naidu
on March 27, 2016, 16:19 GMT

Am a fan of rohit but unlike rahane fans I put team before my fav player. He or dhawan should be replaced by faking an injury or something(only if we win this,duh) bring an infrom player like panday or iyer, this is really really hurting india chances.

LANKAN_JOKE
on March 27, 2016, 16:19 GMT

Agreed Toss was very important, happy Australia won the toss, as a Srilankan I want India to lose the match. Ah, Rohit is OUT, game over for India

Amit Singh
on March 27, 2016, 16:18 GMT

When India bats I pray for power play overs to end asap

android_user
on March 27, 2016, 16:17 GMT

send rohit and dhawan home pls

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 16:16 GMT

One more failure for dhawan. He really is a walking wicket. The selectors need to start asking dhoni why he has guaranteed dhawan a place in the team despite repeated failures. Persisting with a player means giving him a sustained run to prove his worth; it does not mean retaining a player in the team for years even though the player has flopped repeatedly and clearly failed to do even the slightest amount of justice to the numerous chances given to him.

Amit Singh
on March 27, 2016, 16:16 GMT

last match same mistake. Rohit out on 5.4 overs this time.

yvivekcb
on March 27, 2016, 16:11 GMT

WIN toss WIN the match stuff, Australia very very lucky to win the toss and bat

nursery_ender
on March 27, 2016, 16:10 GMT

SURESH KUMAR B ON MARCH 27, 2016, 15:41 GMT
Regarding Smith out, snicko showing something
----------------------------------------------------------
That 'something' being there both before and after the ball passed the edge and not changing as it passed, so whatever it was wasn't the ball hitting the edge.

rohanblue
on March 27, 2016, 16:07 GMT

When are going to get rid of over rated shikhar dhawan???? he destroys the power play overs every time and then gets out, worst batsman

alfaomega
on March 27, 2016, 16:05 GMT

I don't know what they are waiting for. India should just go hard in the first 6 overs and get at least 55-60

rubyfdo
on March 27, 2016, 15:53 GMT

Australians didn't play well ...they all tried to hit the ball hard ...that's all but I feel that if they tried to steal the runs. ....ex late cuts ...they didn't try ...they all wanted to hit hard ...btw I wish Australia

YOUSUF768
on March 27, 2016, 15:50 GMT

Win the toss, win the match I guess!!! It will be a tough chase for this overrated Indian Team

CricLoverBD2016
on March 27, 2016, 15:49 GMT

I know that there are a big number of India haters all around the cricket world, specially the number is really big in Bangladesh. But I really want India to win this match, wanna see them in the semi, in the final & then winning the cup. The players who are playing under the pressure of more than 1 billion fans, really need to win. Again I'm mentioning, I'm not happy with Indian Cricket Board, neither happy with many Indian fans as well (they criticize too much instead of appreciating), but I really love & support the Indian cricket team. I always respect those players who are always handling the pressure of more than 1 billion fans, and even the pressure of a big number of haters. Best wishes for the Indian Team.

Shah
on March 27, 2016, 15:49 GMT

I will always love to watch indian cricket team wining, but only problem is media which iritates then.

IdontlikeitIloveit
on March 27, 2016, 15:47 GMT

Who is going to score runs for India apart from Kholi? Game on.

ELECTRIC_LOCO_WAP4_IS_DELUDED
on March 27, 2016, 15:45 GMT

There is no conspiracy. To Mr Erasmus, it was out. It was out to him with the naked eye and he heard a sound. People who say ICC is Indian Cricket Council are fools because President of ICC right now is Zaheer Abbas and CEO of the ICC is Dave Richardson (South African). Only people who say these things are haters who want to detract from an Indian performance or find excuses for their defeat. I too wish there was DRS, but it is not and I can understand why, but you just deal with it.

Saurabh Kanojia
on March 27, 2016, 15:45 GMT

snicko clearly showed nick what are we talking about ?

lovemybharath
on March 27, 2016, 15:43 GMT

Last over is always tough. Still india pulled pack well to restrict them to 160. It's upto top 4 now to see india home

TheBigH
on March 27, 2016, 15:42 GMT

What's Jadeja doing appealing for the runout when he knows he hasn't touched it?

Suresh Kumar B
on March 27, 2016, 15:41 GMT

Regarding Smith out, snicko showing something, May be there was a thin edge, May be that's what heard by Dhoni or umpire. Don't understand why some people making this controversial decision here.

DhoniManiac
on March 27, 2016, 15:40 GMT

I think Pandya will be or should be promoted up the order and go after anything bowled at him. We have seen him clearing the ropes right from the ball 1.

alfaomega
on March 27, 2016, 15:37 GMT

145 or so would have been a more comfortable chase. Ashwin has been shown up in the whole tournament. He may have got a few wickets but has mostly been ineffective and costly. And he's been pretty poor against Australia always

UnderdogsGalore
on March 27, 2016, 15:37 GMT

People who are complaining about hush in the crowd should remember that India is virtually a 2nd home for SA and WI. They get a lot of support even when playing against India.

ASN786
on March 27, 2016, 15:37 GMT

the best cricket of india has to come yet.if they go past Australia tonight they would be hot favourite to lift the cup..favoring Asian teams from pak

Stillhead
on March 27, 2016, 15:36 GMT

Aussies in the game! Great start but India had great fight back. A few wickets early for the Aussies and India will collapse unser the pressure.

Sanjay Naidu
on March 27, 2016, 15:35 GMT

To all the intellectuals asking for drs, there is no drs for t20s anywhere on this planet.

sachin_vvsfan
on March 27, 2016, 15:35 GMT

@ CRICKETOPTIMIST, @IDONTLIKEITILOVEIT
Snicko did show the deviation. Where did it come from then?
Besides Aus players are known to hold their ground despite knowing they were out. Sorry not buying your argument.

cric_smash
on March 27, 2016, 15:34 GMT

Wonder what dhoni told pandya for the last over ... He could have told the same as last time .....Well we can hear a good story after the match based on the result .....

alcapoon
on March 27, 2016, 15:34 GMT

What is going on the world's best spinner didn't complete his quota and just bowled 2 overs. Kept bowling outside leg stump.....wait that's his normal line. If he bowled his full quota score would have been 190 . Good call from dhoni.

Sanjay Naidu
on March 27, 2016, 15:34 GMT

Looks like a good batting pitch, dhoni should have bowled jadeja than pandya at the end. Faulkner, Nevill is not know for playing against spin. Should have been 8runs less and now bowling out ashwin is a bad decision too, he just had a bad over, that is it. Should have been 150 but they should chase 160 to earn their place in SF, or else they are not. Nothing much to lose just play like champs. May better team wins.

nicknabin1
on March 27, 2016, 15:33 GMT

Pitch is looking good to bat, but there is something for bowlers too. 160 will be very competetive score to chase. Same as yesterday that last 6 could make a difference.

alfaomega
on March 27, 2016, 15:32 GMT

Only concern is India really does not have the firepower in batting like Australia had...except maybe Pandya. The first 6 overs are going to be really important...the more India can get the better

Shuja Rehman
on March 27, 2016, 15:31 GMT

Pandya over Ashwin for the Last over...15 Runs conceeded...Well that's Dhoni for you...hope it dosen't prove too costly for India though

CriInInd
on March 27, 2016, 15:26 GMT

Two players most of us wanted out of the team have performed very well today(pandya and yuvraj). Proud of this performance so far. Big teams turn up for big games. Eat it all you India haters

kahvas
on March 27, 2016, 15:19 GMT

Aussies can cry about Smith given out incorrectly. they should remember the test series where rahane was given out repeatedly and that made a huge difference in the result of that series. taste of your own medicine isn't sweet

mlscricfan
on March 27, 2016, 15:19 GMT

Erasmus is SA umpire, just human error. Nothing to do with India, BCCI or ICC. Part of the game, even Kohli may ger it later!

Anurag Jain
on March 27, 2016, 15:18 GMT

aus 165 , -7 out india can won this match

DhoniManiac
on March 27, 2016, 15:17 GMT

Brilliant comeback by India. Come on India!!!

VinodGupte
on March 27, 2016, 15:17 GMT

Smiths wicket looked stolen. Wonder what the umpire heard. 170 will be a tough chase. India needs 50 in the power play. Rohit Sharma must fire.

Dhirshan Gobind
on March 27, 2016, 15:14 GMT

Why are Australia always showing off with their kits? Black, really? Stick to traditional yellow!

SAURAVJAIN
on March 27, 2016, 15:13 GMT

Smith was not out. Game should be genuine. An ordinary half pitches ball by Yuvi ,Appeal and Smith goes without any fault.DRS should be there.

Kangroos.Proteas.Monkeys.Lions
on March 27, 2016, 15:13 GMT

With reference to the way Australia, India and BD have lost to NZ in this world cup, it is obvious that Australia lost (to NZ) in a much better way while both India and BD could challenge minutely. Therefore, Aussies have better chances. Also, India's whitewash of Aussies in T20 series sometime back will not have a logical bearing here as most of the Aussie team members are from the outfit which beat India in ODIs 4-1. This time Dhoni might not even come to the middle adding to his delaying tactics against BD. India are highly dependent on Kohli, Ashwin and Jadeja who are well known to Aussies while Pandya will be targeted.

ELECTRIC_LOCO_WAP4_IS_DELUDED
on March 27, 2016, 15:13 GMT

Brilliant comeback from India.

cluelessjan1
on March 27, 2016, 15:09 GMT

looks like we are in for a very close match. good come back india.

ELECTRIC_LOCO_WAP4_IS_DELUDED
on March 27, 2016, 14:58 GMT

CRICKETOPTIMIST: Smith was out. Deal with it.

Deep Saini
on March 27, 2016, 14:54 GMT

Host ll be soon out of tournament.

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 14:52 GMT

i will be very upset if some asians fans wont support india tonite just because there team is out of world cup

CricketOptimist
on March 27, 2016, 14:49 GMT

Smith out was not out. As usual. India needs all the luck in the world to win anything.

IdontlikeitIloveit
on March 27, 2016, 14:48 GMT

Smith making a call in the doug out. Hello DRS are you there? What noise did Dhoni hear there?

Syed_imran_abbas
on March 27, 2016, 14:47 GMT

Most pathetic pitches and World Cup ever. No team really seams to playing with full authority.

WTEH
on March 27, 2016, 14:45 GMT

Umpire Erasmus's third wrong decision given in the tournament. How did this guy get into the elite panel??? It is interesting to see if he's going to remain there. team results should not depend on umpire decisions. There should be a way to revert these horrible on field decisions given in a world cup!!!

Shuja Rehman
on March 27, 2016, 14:37 GMT

The crowd hush is felt so clearly in India that it becomes a cause of complaint by the supporters of other teams...Indian spectators need to learn the art of balancing their emotions while their team is playing well to showing sporting spirit when they are under the pump so that they don't come across as outright biased

Shihab Sharfuddin
on March 27, 2016, 14:35 GMT

india will qualify for the semi final and australia will go home. India deserve to be world champion.

Justanother Human
on March 27, 2016, 14:30 GMT

The match is over already. Never expected ashwin to leak so many runs .

strangerg
on March 27, 2016, 14:27 GMT

Fantastic start by aussies. Bumrah and ashwin all over the ground. Could it be over 200

ELECTRIC_LOCO_WAP4_IS_DELUDED
on March 27, 2016, 14:21 GMT

The ball is sitting up. Hopefully stays true when India bat.

mysw4gizfir3
on March 27, 2016, 14:20 GMT

The so called best spinner getting exposed by Australian batters

cricketcommentary
on March 27, 2016, 14:19 GMT

IndvsAus Stadium is so silent in these powerplay that it is hard to tell if it is crowded or empty!!

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 14:17 GMT

looks like Indias luck is running out.

espncricinfomobile
on March 27, 2016, 14:17 GMT

Go Australia, the rest of the cricketing world is with you!!

Kangroos.Proteas.Monkeys.Lions
on March 27, 2016, 14:11 GMT

With reference to the way Australia, India and BD have lost to NZ in this world cup, it is obvious that Australia lost (to NZ) in a much better way while both India and BD could challenge minutely. Therefore, Aussies have better chances. Also, India's whitewash of Aussies in T20 series sometime back will not have a logical bearing here as most of the Aussie team members are from the outfit which beat India in ODIs 4-1. This time Dhoni might not even come to the middle adding to his delaying tactics against BD. India are highly dependent on Kohli, Ashwin and Jadeja who are well known to Aussies while Pandya will be targeted.

strangerg
on March 27, 2016, 14:03 GMT

Could it be end of shastri. I mean defeat against nd and Australia. Almost defeated against bd and only kohli heroic against Pakistan. Don't think a bright picture

Yuvraj should have been out of the team. If India loses he will be the main reason for the failure.

JackCooper
on March 28, 2016, 9:33 GMT

There are magnificent structures and then there is a Taj Mahal.
There are dazzling diamonds and then there is a Kohinoor.
There are Virat Kohli's innings and then there was this gem in Mohali.
No reverse or switch hits, no muscled heaves across the lines, no dillscoopes.
Only the cool, the panache, the execution of skills, the audacity as never seen before.
Love & Respect from SA.

SherjilIslam
on March 27, 2016, 22:26 GMT

I don't have words...I really don't have any apt adjective left to define what an innings Virat Kohli played today.
To be honest, this is one of the best cricket innings I have ever watched across all formats.
This left me emotionally drained.

Thank You so much Shane Watson for being such a great competitor across the years. I believe your bowling has always been quite underrated. You are certainly better than the likes of NCN, Hastings et al. Good luck for your future endeavours.

Excellent spell Nehraji. Your hardwork and fairytale comeback is surely gonna be an inspiration for many.

Well done MSD. Be humble and be nice the way you are ..and keep hitting those winning boundaries *_*

Antriksh Taliwal
on March 27, 2016, 20:40 GMT

Since the start of India's T20 season in 2016-right from Australia to the current T20 WC, our bowling, which was bleeding runs like anything before, have managed to keep the opposition restricted to below 150 in the last 15 matches, except for 2 matches (both against Australia, including today's match)...such has been the impact of inclusion of Ashish Nehra and Jasprit Bumrah as our frontline bowlers....especially Nehra, who has stood by his reputation of being a wicket taker magnificently... and his contribution in guiding the younger bowlers under pressure situations can be considered nothing short of invaluable... he still looks like Nehra of 2003 era, running in like a horse and bowling with pace and swing... he has really scripted an unbelievably memorable comeback, esp when most of his peers of his playing days have got retired from the game....
‪#‎Hats_off_Nehraji‬

DriftTurnAndBounce
on March 27, 2016, 19:02 GMT

There are times when words aren't enough to describe a performance on the cricket field; the adjectives seem clumsy, the praise clichéd, and the description utterly prosaic. Virat's performance today was such that it renders any effort to describe it obscenely inadequate.

To finish off a close game is special; to finish off a seemingly lost game single handedly is extraordinary; but to finish off seemingly lost games, in do-or-die situations, single handedly, while playing on your terms, match after match, is nothing short of legendary. Take a bow Virat; you justified your name, which roughly means Gigantic, today.

Kudos to Nehra-ji as well, for that was a great performance under pressure. Well done to MSD, what are we going to do without him, for superb bowling changes and keeping things calm, as usual, after that horror show of a start.

Finally well played to Aussies, that was a well fought game, and good luck to Watto in his retirement.

Good luck Men in Blue! Bring it home!!!

sachinisnogood
on March 27, 2016, 14:02 GMT

Yuvraj should have been out of the team. If India loses he will be the main reason for the failure.

Could it be end of shastri. I mean defeat against nd and Australia. Almost defeated against bd and only kohli heroic against Pakistan. Don't think a bright picture

Kangroos.Proteas.Monkeys.Lions
on March 27, 2016, 14:11 GMT

With reference to the way Australia, India and BD have lost to NZ in this world cup, it is obvious that Australia lost (to NZ) in a much better way while both India and BD could challenge minutely. Therefore, Aussies have better chances. Also, India's whitewash of Aussies in T20 series sometime back will not have a logical bearing here as most of the Aussie team members are from the outfit which beat India in ODIs 4-1. This time Dhoni might not even come to the middle adding to his delaying tactics against BD. India are highly dependent on Kohli, Ashwin and Jadeja who are well known to Aussies while Pandya will be targeted.

espncricinfomobile
on March 27, 2016, 14:17 GMT

Go Australia, the rest of the cricketing world is with you!!

Cricinfouser
on March 27, 2016, 14:17 GMT

looks like Indias luck is running out.

cricketcommentary
on March 27, 2016, 14:19 GMT

IndvsAus Stadium is so silent in these powerplay that it is hard to tell if it is crowded or empty!!

mysw4gizfir3
on March 27, 2016, 14:20 GMT

The so called best spinner getting exposed by Australian batters

ELECTRIC_LOCO_WAP4_IS_DELUDED
on March 27, 2016, 14:21 GMT

The ball is sitting up. Hopefully stays true when India bat.

strangerg
on March 27, 2016, 14:27 GMT

Fantastic start by aussies. Bumrah and ashwin all over the ground. Could it be over 200